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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others