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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr 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"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

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

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

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

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others