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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many