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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career 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 builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention