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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

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

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many