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The UK's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades 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 maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to inspire many