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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others