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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr 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 the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony 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 champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention