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Britain's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

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

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

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 I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others