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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

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

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"England has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path throughout my decades as a boxing representative 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 boxing world"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many