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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention