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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many