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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"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"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others