🔗 Share this article

Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK 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 happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

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

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many