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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter 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 creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others