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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

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 first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager 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"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others