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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

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

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention