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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others