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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in May 2024 by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

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

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His achievements mark one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the contest

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, won the provisional belt from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his representative believes it is a done deal

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

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• Wardley's expected promotion signals a major shift in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from late starter to world champion continues to capture attention