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

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others