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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured 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 required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

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

The champion started fighting 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 relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention