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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

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

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention