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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others