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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others