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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others