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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This development comes after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

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 force the postponement of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention