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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

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 emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many