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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention