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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

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

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many