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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

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

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

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

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many