British boxing is celebrating the arrival of a new world champion as Fabio Wardley is poised to be officially upgraded to the status of WBO heavyweight titleholder. This dramatic shift in the boxing landscape comes after the reigning undisputed champion, Oleksandr Usyk, formally elected to vacate the WBO belt.
Usyk's Decision Paves the Way for Wardley
The Ukrainian superstar, who unified the world titles by defeating Britain's Daniel Dubois in July 2024, has relinquished his WBO crown after what the organisation described as "thoughtful consideration." This move ends Usyk's second spell as the undisputed heavyweight champion, a status he held only briefly.
Wardley earned his mandatory shot at the title after a spectacular victory last month, where he wrested the interim WBO title from Joseph Parker via an 11th-round stoppage. He was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September, but the champion's decision has now cleared a direct path to the championship for the undefeated Briton.
From White-Collar Beginnings to World Champion
Fabio Wardley's ascent to the top of the sport is one of boxing's most remarkable modern stories. He began his career in the white-collar boxing scene before turning professional in 2017. Since then, he has amassed an impressive record of 17 consecutive wins.
His journey to the title was forged through a series of tough domestic battles. After a split-decision draw against Frazer Clarke in March 2024, Wardley decisively beat Clarke in a single round just seven months later. He then came from behind to stop the highly-touted Justis Huni, securing his shot at Parker and, ultimately, this world title.
A New British Star is Born
While the WBO is yet to issue an official statement confirming Wardley's status, his promoter, the legendary Frank Warren, believes it is a certainty. Taking to social media platform X, Warren wrote a glowing tribute, stating: "Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport."
He added, "One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of @FabioWardley. Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport."
Upon confirmation, Wardley will become the sixth Briton to hold the WBO heavyweight title, joining an elite list that includes Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Henry Akinwande, Herbie Hide, and Michael Bentt. His promotion marks a stunning culmination of a journey from the white-collar gyms to the pinnacle of world boxing.
