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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder 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 the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter 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 fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many