🔗 Share this article

The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"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"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many