Britain's Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Vacates Belt
Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title
This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger
Official Announcement
The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"
Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder
He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent
"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"
"Officials expressed 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 impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"
The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"
Championship History
The champion captured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly
In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight
British Fighter's Journey
But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline
The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty
"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"
"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"
"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"
Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts
Future Prospects
- The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
- The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
- The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
- The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many