Fabio Wardley has claimed the heavyweight world championship title as Oleksandr Usyk relinquished his belt. Wardley defeated Joseph Parker in the 11th round last month to secure the interim WBO champion status. Usyk, who was slated to defend his four belts against Wardley, decided not to face the British contender for the ninth time.
Usyk, a former two-time undisputed world champion, had victories over Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois. Initially planning to retire after one more fight, Usyk has now disclosed his intention to continue boxing for another two years. Wardley’s journey to becoming a world champion has been remarkable, starting his career in the white-collar boxing scene without any amateur background. Since turning professional in 2017, he has only lost once in his 20 fights, with 19 knockouts to his credit, defeating notable opponents like Justis Huni, David Adeleye, Nick Gorman, and Nick Webb.
The only blemish on Wardley’s record is a draw against Frazer Clarke, but Wardley avenged it with a first-round TKO in a rematch. Despite Wardley’s desire to face Usyk, he didn’t need to fight the current ‘baddest man on the planet’ to realize his dream of becoming a world champion. This marks the second time Usyk has vacated a title, following his decision to engage in an instant rematch with Fury instead of facing the mandatory challenger in Dubois.
As Wardley clinched the WBO heavyweight championship, promoter Frank Warren expressed pride in the new titleholder, highlighting the bright future ahead for Wardley in defending his belt and leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
