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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

"The UK 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 boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others