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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional 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 impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many