🔗 Share this article

Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

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

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many