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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous 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 done deal

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

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

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others