🔗 Share this article

England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to 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 the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many