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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

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

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

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

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention