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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

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

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many