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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

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

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others