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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention