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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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 Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

"The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others