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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

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

"The UK has a recent title holder 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"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others