🔗 Share this article

England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

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

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

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

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many