The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title
This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger
Boxing Organization's Position
The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"
Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion
He first became the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger
"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"
"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"
"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"
The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"
Championship History
Usyk secured the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly
In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest
New Champion's Path
But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline
The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality
"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"
"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"
"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"
Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts
Coming Challenges
- Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
- Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
- The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
- The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others
