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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

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

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

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention