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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his representative 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 more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention