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England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many