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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

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

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention