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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many