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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many