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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

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

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

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

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

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

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention