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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others