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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

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

Boxing Organization's Position

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

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

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 required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others