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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

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 overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

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

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

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

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many