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

England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many