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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

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

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in two years ago 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 Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career 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 establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many