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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This follows after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

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 originally secured the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

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 cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 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 formality

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

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

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to motivate others