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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

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

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many