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England's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in recently by overcoming 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 force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention