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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention