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

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages 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 recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention