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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate 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 mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention