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The UK's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many