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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others