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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents 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"

Title Reign

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many