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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a huge upset in the 11th round at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many