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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many