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Britain's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against the British challenger

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

The boxing body stated that its doors "will always remain open the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

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

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from Parker with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

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

"England has a fresh boxing champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a sports manager and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

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

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had only 21 pro bouts

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title paves the way for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many