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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

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

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention