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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 Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

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

He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention