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

This development comes after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"Organization head Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In summer, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The WBO is yet to officially confirm Wardley's promotion but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and establishes his place in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The champion's choice to vacate the belt paves the way for other contenders
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the championship body
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to world champion continues to motivate others