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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

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

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many