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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

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

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to world champion continues to capture attention