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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

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

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

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

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

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention