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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention