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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"England 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 the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, 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 division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many