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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

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

"England has a new heavyweight world 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"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention