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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"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 sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others