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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative 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 sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many