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

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks 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 Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing 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"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention