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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many