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The UK's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight 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 mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion 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"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many