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England's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others