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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

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

Title Reign

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others