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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others