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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others