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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, 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
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many