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England's boxing star is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Usyk chose to vacate his title

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

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title a month afterwards and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"Officials expressed its sincere admiration and thanks to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the champion and his camp"

Championship History

Usyk secured the world title in 2021 by overcoming Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In July, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a done deal

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a boxing representative and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

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

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others