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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

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 all-belt title holder in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a sports manager 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 establishes his place in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention