Britain's Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Boxing Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship

The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous 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 manager 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 I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

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

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others