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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in recently by beating the British star 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 champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face 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 certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention