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Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude 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 WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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 emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others