🔗 Share this article

England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

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

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention