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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

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

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

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

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

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 marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others