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Britain's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This follows after the champion told boxing authorities he would avoid a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

The Ukrainian maintains the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the complete unified champion in May 2024 by defeating the British champion, before vacating another belt shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

"The organization offers its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

"His achievements mark one of the most remarkable and significant of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured the championship in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to require rescheduling of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from Parker with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena last month and was ordered to fight the champion before the September deadline

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for next year as he defends his WBO belt and establishes his place in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Future Prospects

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the championship body
• The champion's path from late starter to championship status continues to motivate others