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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter 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 belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

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

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others