🔗 Share this article

The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others