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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion 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 the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many