🔗 Share this article

England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many