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

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

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

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others