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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

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

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention