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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

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 originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

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

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many