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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

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

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured 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 mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many