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

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many