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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Title Reign

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

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

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

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

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others