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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

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

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many