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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention