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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua 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 force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

"The UK has a fresh boxing 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"

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

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others