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Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• 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 anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to motivate others