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

This follows after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous 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 representative believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention