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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

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

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation 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 anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention