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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship 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 mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

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

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others