🔗 Share this article

England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others