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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"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"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others