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

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

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

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others