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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

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

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

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others