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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention