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The UK's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after the champion notified the WBO he would not proceed with a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

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

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and builds his reputation 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 anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to championship status continues to inspire many