Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his title
This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent
Boxing Organization's Position
The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"
Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder
He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent
"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"
"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"
"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"
The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"
Title Reign
Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times
In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight
Wardley's Rise
But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline
The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal
"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"
"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"
"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"
The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights
What's Next
- The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
- The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
- The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
- The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many
