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Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations 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

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention