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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed 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 obligatory contender

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative 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 fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention