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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations 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

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention