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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention