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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month 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 formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

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

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many