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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

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

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

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future 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 just 21 professional fights

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention