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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"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 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 a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention