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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month 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 recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention