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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

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

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

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

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

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many