🔗 Share this article

England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, 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 the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others