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Britain's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his championship belt

This follows after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and choosing to avoid the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most extraordinary and historic of the recent fighting history"

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to cause the delay of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a rising boxing talent"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley only began boxing at twenty years old, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to vacate the belt opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from late starter to world champion continues to inspire many