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England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved 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

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many