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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain 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 happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others