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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"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

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others