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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

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

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

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention