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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others