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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

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

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

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

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many