Fabio Wardley has claimed the heavyweight world championship title as Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his belt. In a thrilling showdown last month, Wardley defeated Joseph Parker in the 11th round to secure the interim WBO champion status. Usyk, who was mandated to defend his four titles against Wardley, opted out of the matchup, making way for Wardley’s ascent.
Having previously held the undisputed world champion title twice after victories over Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois, Usyk had initially intended to retire after one more fight. However, he recently announced his decision to continue competing for another two years. Wardley’s journey to becoming a world champion is remarkable, starting his career in the white-collar boxing scene without any amateur experience. Since turning professional in 2017, he has only suffered one defeat among his 20 wins, one draw, and impressive 19 knockout victories against notable opponents like Justis Huni, David Adeleye, Nick Gorman, and Nick Webb.
Despite a draw with Frazer Clarke in their initial bout, Wardley decisively defeated Clarke in a rematch, solidifying his position as the better fighter. While Wardley had expressed eagerness to face Usyk, he ultimately achieved his dream of becoming a world champion without having to fight the current heavyweight champion.
This marks the second time Usyk has vacated a title, following his relinquishment of the IBF belt last year to pursue a rematch with Tyson Fury instead of facing the mandatory challenger, Daniel Dubois. Dubois, who was promoted to full IBF champion, successfully defended his title with a fifth-round knockout of Anthony Joshua before eventually losing to Usyk in a bout at Wembley Stadium in July 2025.
Following Wardley’s championship win, his promoter Frank Warren expressed pride in the new WBO heavyweight champion, highlighting the bright future ahead for Wardley in defending his title and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.