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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many