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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

This follows after Usyk informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before giving up the IBF title five weeks later and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

"The organization offers its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a required title defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport"

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, 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 Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from late starter to title holder continues to capture attention