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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

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

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport 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 the weight class
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention