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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

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

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

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention