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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many