🔗 Share this article

The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" 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 remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others