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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

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

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

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

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many