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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention