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Britain's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys 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 the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the WBO
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention