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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

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

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention