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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"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 remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's 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 major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others