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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his title

This development comes after Usyk notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

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

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change marks a significant moment in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention