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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention