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

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

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

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many