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England's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed 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 Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages 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 the British fighter's elevation but his manager 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"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention