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England's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain 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 the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many