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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, 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 organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many