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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in recently by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories 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 maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many