Wardley to be world champion as Usyk gives up belt

Fabio Wardley of Britain is anticipated to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion following Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to vacate his title.

This comes after Usyk, the Ukrainian fighter, notified the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) that he would not move forward with a mandatory title defense against Wardley.

The WBO announced that Usyk had «chosen to give up his title after careful contemplation».

Usyk still retains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion.

He initially captured the four-belt undisputed champion status in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, only to relinquish the IBF title five weeks later and opt not to face the mandatory challenger.

WBO president Gustavo Olivieri referred to Usyk as «a champion among champions» in a statement.

«The WBO conveys its deep respect, appreciation, and gratitude towards Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten, two-division WBO undisputed world champion,» Olivieri stated.

«His journey is recognized as one of the most remarkable and historic in the contemporary boxing world.»

The WBO expressed that its doors «will consistently remain open to Usyk and his team».

Usyk secured the WBO title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and successfully defended it four times.

In July, the WBO had instructed negotiations for a compulsory defense against interim champion Joseph Parker from New Zealand, but a back injury sustained by Usyk led to the postponement of the bout.

However, Wardley, 30, claimed the interim title from Parker with a massive upset in the 11th round at London’s O2 Arena last month and was mandated to fight Usyk before the end of September.

The WBO has yet to officially acknowledge Wardley’s advancement, yet his promoter Frank Warren views it as a mere formality.

«Britain now has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising star in the sport,» Warren posted on X.

«One of the most remarkable tales I have encountered in my 45 years as a promoter, and I could not be more proud of Fabio Wardley.»

«Significant fights ahead in 2026 as he defends his WBO title and establishes a genuine legacy in the sport.»

Wardley only commenced boxing at 20, emerging from the unlicensed white-collar scene and has participated in just 21 professional bouts.