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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship 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 boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others