🔗 Share this article

The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

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

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain 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 more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many