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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

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

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention