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The UK's boxing star is set to be promoted to heavyweight title holder after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would not proceed with a required championship defense against the British challenger

Official Announcement

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

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having defeated Daniel Dubois at the national stadium in July to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before vacating another belt a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

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

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the contemporary boxing period"

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

Championship History

The champion captured the championship in two years ago by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to defend it four times

In mid-year, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, won the provisional belt from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was ordered to fight the champion before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

"Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had a limited professional record

What's Next

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many