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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his world title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many