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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

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

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr 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 organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt 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 WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

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 heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention