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England'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 Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many