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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

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

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others