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England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention