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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative 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 establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many