š Share this article Ipswich boxer Fabio Wardley Expected to Become World Boxing Champion as Ukrainian Champion Usyk Relinquishes Title English contender the rising star only began boxing at the age of twenty England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his title This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent Official Announcement The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration" Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion He first became the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent "WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement" "The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion" "His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era" The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team" Usyk is an Olympic gold medallist and perfect in his pro career Belt Timeline The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times In mid-year, 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 British Fighter's Journey But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal "Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent" "Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley" "Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community" The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights Coming Challenges The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others