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The UK's Fabio Wardley is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became 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 Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative 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 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 creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

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

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many