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England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved 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 mandatory challenger

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

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

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

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others