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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others