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

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many