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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many