Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Vacates Belt

Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention