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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

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"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others