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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four 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 fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many