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Britain's heavyweight contender is set to be promoted to WBO heavyweight champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This development comes after Ukrainian fighter told boxing authorities he would avoid a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that the champion decided to give up his belt after deep reflection"

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 repeat unified title holder

He first became the complete unified champion in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and deciding not to fight the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"Officials expressed its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two-division WBO undisputed world champion"

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

The boxing body stated that its organization will always welcome the champion and his camp"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the championship in 2021 by beating the British star and went on to successfully defend multiple times

In summer, the WBO had ordered negotiations for a mandatory defence against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to cause the delay of the contest

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the 11th round at London's O2 Arena last month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his manager Warren believes it is a formality

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

"Among the most remarkable journeys throughout my decades as a boxing representative and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

The champion started fighting aged 20, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had only 21 pro bouts

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change signals a major shift in the weight class
• The champion's choice to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The fighting community now anticipates verification from the championship body
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others