British heavyweight sensation Fabio Wardley is on the verge of becoming the new WBO heavyweight world champion after Ukrainian boxing superstar Oleksandr Usyk officially vacated the belt. The development marks a major milestone in Wardley’s rapid rise through the heavyweight division and signals a new chapter in the global title landscape.

The World Boxing Organisation (WBO) confirmed that Usyk has chosen not to proceed with his mandatory title defence against Wardley, citing his own strategic decisions regarding the remainder of his championship belts. The Ukrainian champion, who remains undefeated in his professional career, notified the WBO that he would relinquish the belt “after thoughtful consideration,” according to a statement from the organisation.

Usyk Steps Aside After Historic Championship Run

Usyk, one of the sport’s most decorated modern fighters, continues to hold the WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles. His most recent triumph came in July, when he defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, earning his status as a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion.

The Ukrainian icon originally unified all four major belts in May 2024 after defeating Tyson Fury, becoming one of the few boxers in history to achieve undisputed status in two weight divisions. Five weeks later, he vacated the IBF title and has now chosen not to fulfill the WBO mandatory defence against Wardley.

WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised Usyk’s achievements, calling him “a champion of champions,” and expressing gratitude for his historic contributions to modern boxing. The organisation emphasized that the door remains open for Usyk should he seek a return to reclaim the title in the future.

Fabio Wardley: From Late Starter to World-Level Heavyweight

Wardley’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. The Ipswich-born fighter only began boxing at the age of 20, entering the sport through the unlicensed white-collar scene before transitioning into the professional ranks. With just 21 professional fights, Wardley has shocked the heavyweight scene with his athleticism, punching power, and relentless determination.

In a dramatic upset last month at London’s O2 Arena, Wardley claimed the WBO interim heavyweight title with an 11th-round stoppage victory over New Zealand’s Joseph Parker. The win propelled him to mandatory challenger status, positioning him for a showdown with Usyk.

However, with Usyk withdrawing and vacating the belt—partly due to a back injury that had already delayed earlier negotiations—the path is now clear for Wardley to be elevated to full WBO heavyweight champion.

Promoter Frank Warren Hails ‘Incredible Story’

Although the WBO has not yet released its official confirmation of Wardley’s promotion, his promoter Frank Warren says the decision is all but guaranteed.

Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Warren wrote:

“Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport. 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.”

He added that fans can expect “huge fights ahead for 2026” as Wardley looks to defend his soon-to-be-official WBO title and cement his legacy in the heavyweight division.

A New Era for the Heavyweight Division

With Usyk focusing on his remaining titles and Wardley stepping into the WBO throne, the heavyweight division is set for a major shake-up. Potential matchups for Wardley could include top British contenders, international rising stars, and possible unification bouts down the road.

For a fighter who picked up the sport late and carved his own unconventional path to world-level competition, Fabio Wardley’s ascent is one of boxing’s most inspiring modern success stories.

As fans await the official WBO announcement, the spotlight now firmly shines on Britain’s newest heavyweight star.