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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Organization head the WBO leader praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in recently by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the fighting community"

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

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to world champion continues to inspire many