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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

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

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"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 establishes his place in the boxing world"

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

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others