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England's heavyweight contender is expected to be elevated to WBO heavyweight champion after Oleksandr Usyk decided to relinquish his title

This development comes after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having overcome Daniel Dubois at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He initially achieved the complete unified champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and deciding not to fight the obligatory contender

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most remarkable and significant of the contemporary boxing period"

The organization continued that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Title Reign

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against temporary title holder Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, captured the temporary championship from his opponent with a major surprise in the championship rounds at the capital's venue last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the title change but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a formality

"England has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Major contests coming up for 2026 as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade signals a major shift in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to motivate others