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Britain's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the complete unified champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head the WBO leader called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In mid-year, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"The UK has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

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

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene 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 creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many