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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many