Britain's Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Usyk Relinquishes Title

The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many