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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in recently by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention