Oleksandr Usyk claims he surrendered one of his world titles to provide opportunities for the next generation of fighters. Usyk possessed all four heavyweight belts but vacated his WBO strap when mandated to defend it against Fabio Wardley. Wardley was consequently elevated to full champion status and will make his maiden defence in 2026.

The Ukrainian insists he wishes to witness the Brit clash with stablemate Moses Itauma. Usyk’s camp manager, Sergey Lapin, revealed: “Oleksandr vacated the belt to give young boxers a chance to fight for it. Let’s see how everything develops from here. Fabio Wardley vs. Moses Itauma would be a wonderful fight for both, and it would be very interesting to see who comes out on top.”

Wardley seized the interim title from Joseph Parker through a spectacular 11th-round stoppage last month and was mandated to face the Ukrainian.

However, the WBO confirmed Wardley as their new champion last week after previously acknowledging that Usyk, who unified the world titles by defeating another Briton, IBF champion Daniel Dubois in July, had formally communicated his decision to relinquish the belt.

Wardley’s promoter Frank Warren posted on X: “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 @FabioWardley. Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport.”

Wardley began his career in white-collar boxing, turning professional in 2017 and achieving an impressive streak of 17 consecutive victories. After a split-decision draw against Frazer Clarke in March 2024, he defeated the same opponent in just one round seven months later.

This was followed by a comeback victory over Justis Huni, securing his opportunity to face Parker.

With this achievement, Wardley joins the ranks of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Henry Akinwande, Herbie Hide and Michael Bentt as the sixth Briton to hold the WBO heavyweight title.