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England's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

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

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

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

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's 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 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter 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 fighting community"

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

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• 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 late starter to title holder continues to capture attention