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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others