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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"Officials expressed 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 organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention