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

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against Wardley

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many