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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion 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"

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

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others