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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention