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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention