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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, 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 contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to motivate others