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England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

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

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention