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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense 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 famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"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 protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing 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 give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others