🔗 Share this article Fabio Wardley Set to Become World Heavyweight Champion as Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes Title Ipswich fighter Fabio Wardley started his boxing career at the relatively late age England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley Official Announcement The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration" Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger "WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement" "The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes" "His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period" The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management" The Ukrainian boxer is an gold medal winner and perfect in his pro career Belt Timeline The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout New Champion's Path But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal "Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality" "Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter" "Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport" Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights What's Next The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many