Fabio Wardley Poised to Become WBO World Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Vacates Belt

Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder 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 happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention