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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others