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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

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 obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many