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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

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

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

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

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many