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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others