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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This follows after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and opting out of facing the required opponent

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks 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 contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony 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 force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others