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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, 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 boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many