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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title 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 mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene 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 anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention