🔗 Share this article

Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"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 defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention