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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker 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 manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others