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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

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

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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 recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others