Britain's Fabio Wardley Set to Become WBO World Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes Title

Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many