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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the later stages at London's O2 Arena 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 promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

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

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many