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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many