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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

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

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

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

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a certainty

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

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

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to give up the championship paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to capture attention