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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO 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 defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others