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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to motivate others