🔗 Share this article

The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

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 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 certainty

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention