Britain's Fabio Wardley Expected to Become WBO World Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship

Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention