🔗 Share this article

England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

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

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention