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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others