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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium 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 relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others