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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

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

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

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

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many