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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

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

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention