Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes Title
The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title
This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger
Boxing Organization's Position
The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"
The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion
He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender
"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"
"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"
"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"
The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"
Belt Timeline
The champion captured the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly
In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest
New Champion's Path
But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline
The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal
"England 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 promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"
"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"
Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights
What's Next
- The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
- Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
- The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
- The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others