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The UK's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path 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 creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many