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The UK's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Boxing official the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in recently by beating the British star and went on to defend it four times

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

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

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention