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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys 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 maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others