🔗 Share this article

England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr 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 WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention