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

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others