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The UK's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion decided to relinquish his title

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

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in mid-year to become a repeat unified title holder

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a official release"

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

"His career stands as one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Championship History

The champion captured the WBO belt in two years ago by overcoming Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a back injury sustained by Usyk to cause the delay of the bout

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from Parker with a huge upset in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a formality

"Britain has a fresh boxing champion and a new star of the sport"

"One of the most incredible stories throughout my decades 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 creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the weight class
• The Ukrainian's move to relinquish the title creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The sport now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to capture attention