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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

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

Championship History

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

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face 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 new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to motivate others