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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His record represents 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 secured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention