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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

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

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to motivate others