🔗 Share this article

The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many