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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

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 last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many