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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

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

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's 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, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to motivate others