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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

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

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many