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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

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

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement 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 later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others