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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

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

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention