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England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world 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"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others