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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to motivate others