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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many