🔗 Share this article

England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

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

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

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others