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The UK's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

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

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention