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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

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

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

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"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 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention