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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

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

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK 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"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention