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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

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

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"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 prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others