Britain's Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Gives Up Championship
The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt
This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent
Boxing Organization's Position
The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"
The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion
He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent
"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"
"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"
"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"
The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"
Championship History
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 mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight
Wardley's Rise
But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion
The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty
"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"
"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"
"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"
Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts
Future Prospects
- The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
- The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
- The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
- The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many