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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

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

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention