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

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

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

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many