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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many