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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

The champion captured the world title in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

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 fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many