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The UK's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title 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 September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others