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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention