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England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention