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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends 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 modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others