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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

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

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention