🔗 Share this article

The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

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 the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

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

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others