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Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena last month 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 promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

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

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others