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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

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

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention