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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This situation arises after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the famous London arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion 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 formality

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship paves the way for more fighters
• The fighting community now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to world champion continues to motivate others