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England's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"The organization offers its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

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

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the WBO belt in recently by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he maintains his title and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to title holder continues to inspire many