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

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention