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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year 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 five weeks later and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

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 capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention