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England's heavyweight contender will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Usyk opted to give up his world title

This situation arises after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a obligatory title fight against his mandatory opponent

Boxing Organization's Position

The championship body announced that Usyk chose to vacate his title after thoughtful consideration"

The Ukrainian maintains the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

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

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support Usyk and his team"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the WBO belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

Wardley's Rise

But Wardley, 30, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify Wardley's promotion but his representative believes it is a certainty

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

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

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting aged 20, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in heavyweight boxing
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for more fighters
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the WBO
• The champion's path from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many