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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

WBO Statement

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

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many