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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

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

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

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

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others