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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

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

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

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention