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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention