Fabio Wardley has clinched the heavyweight world champion title as Oleksandr Usyk relinquished his belt. Wardley defeated Joseph Parker in the 11th round last month, securing the interim WBO champion status. Usyk, who held four belts, was due to defend against Wardley but opted out of facing the British fighter for the ninth time.
Having previously held the undisputed world champion title twice after victories over Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois, Usyk initially planned to fight just once more but recently announced his intent to continue for another two years. Wardley’s rise to world champion status marks a remarkable journey that began in the white-collar boxing scene, with a professional record of 20 wins, one draw, and no losses, including 19 knockouts against opponents like Justis Huni, David Adeleye, Nick Gorman, and Nick Webb.
Despite a draw with Frazer Clarke in their first encounter, Wardley settled the debate in a rematch with a first-round TKO victory. While expressing eagerness to face Usyk, Wardley ultimately did not need to fight the current heavyweight champion to achieve his dream of becoming a world champion. This is the second time Usyk has vacated a belt, having previously given up his IBF title to take an instant rematch with Fury instead of facing the mandatory challenger, Dubois.
Wardley’s promoter, Frank Warren, swiftly celebrated Wardley’s WBO heavyweight champion status, highlighting the fighter’s success and predicting significant bouts in 2026 that will solidify Wardley’s legacy in the sport.
