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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention