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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

"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 sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention