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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

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

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many