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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The WBO stated 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 repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain 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 prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention