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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

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

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many