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

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri 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 extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others