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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many