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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

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

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many