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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a huge upset in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

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

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

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

The champion started fighting relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others