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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

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 overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

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

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit 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 vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many