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England's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London 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 manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many