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England's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would avoid a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome 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 last year by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a statement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

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

The champion started fighting at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to capture attention