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

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the required opponent

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

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention