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Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

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

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

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

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

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

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

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many