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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his title

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

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"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 sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to inspire many