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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

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

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many