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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting 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 the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for additional challengers
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention