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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face 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 formality

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many