🔗 Share this article

Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many