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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

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

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, 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 other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention