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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

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

Belt Timeline

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

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"Britain has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others