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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader 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 boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk won the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

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

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to capture attention