🔗 Share this article Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Poised to Become World Boxing Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Relinquishes Title English contender the heavyweight prospect only began boxing at the relatively late age Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent Official Announcement The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration" The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger "Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement" "The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes" "His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history" The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team" The Ukrainian boxer is an gold medal winner and perfect in his pro career Title Reign Usyk secured 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 obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest New Champion's Path But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal "Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality" "Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley" "Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community" The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts What's Next The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention