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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

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 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention