🔗 Share this article

The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter 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 remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years 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 builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting 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 weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others