🔗 Share this article

The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess 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 initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many