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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

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

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others