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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a mandatory title defence against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open Usyk and his team"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the later stages at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his manager Warren believes it is a certainty

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to motivate others