Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Gives Up Championship

England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention