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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

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

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention