Britain's Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Usyk Gives Up Championship
England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt
This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent
WBO Statement
The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"
The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion
He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent
"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"
"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"
"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"
The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"
Championship History
The champion captured the world title in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times
In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout
New Champion's Path
But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September
The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty
"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"
"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"
"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"
Wardley entered the sport relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights
What's Next
- Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
- Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
- The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
- The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others