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

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers 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 modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• 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 sport now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention