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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 Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention