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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

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

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

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention