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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

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

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years 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 establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others