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England's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter notified the WBO he would not engage in a obligatory title fight against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in the summer month to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt shortly after and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a announcement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to Usyk, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era"

The WBO added that its doors "will always remain open the fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

Usyk secured the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In summer, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the later stages at London's O2 Arena recently and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

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

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

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a sports manager and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The fighting community now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• Wardley's story from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to capture attention