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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention