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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year 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 only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many