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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

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

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others