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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to inspire many