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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Title Reign

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

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others