🔗 Share this article Britain's Fabio Wardley Expected to Become World Boxing Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Relinquishes Title Ipswich fighter the rising star only began boxing at the age of 20 England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger Official Announcement The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection" Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger "WBO president the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement" "The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes" "His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history" The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team" The Ukrainian boxer is an gold medal winner and perfect in his pro career Championship History The champion captured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight British Fighter's Journey But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round 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 Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal "The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport" "One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley" "Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community" The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts Future Prospects The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention