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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This follows after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

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

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many