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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds 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 first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention