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England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as 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

Usyk won the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

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 bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter 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 fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others