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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

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

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

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

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others