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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his championship belt

This development comes after the champion told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against Wardley

WBO Statement

The championship body announced 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 the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt five weeks later and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"WBO president the WBO leader described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its sincere admiration and thanks to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

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

Belt Timeline

Usyk won the world title in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the bout

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at the capital's venue recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his representative believes it is a formality

"The UK has a recent title holder and a rising boxing talent"

"One of the most incredible stories during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the sport"

The champion started fighting relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others