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

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain 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 prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many