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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess 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 initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

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

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion 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 sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others