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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

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

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

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

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

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month 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 certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

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

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many