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England's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his championship belt

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the four-belt undisputed champion in May 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

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

"His achievements mark one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

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

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his representative believes it is a certainty

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the sport"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention