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

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated 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 Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others