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The UK's Fabio Wardley is expected to be elevated to heavyweight title holder after Usyk chose to vacate his title

This follows after the champion informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not proceed with a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

Official Announcement

The WBO stated that the champion decided to give up his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in the summer month to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in last year by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship five weeks later and opting out of facing the obligatory contender

"Boxing official Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a official release"

"Officials expressed its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, 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 fighter and his management"

Belt Timeline

The champion captured the world title in recently 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 Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the contest

New Champion's Path

But Wardley, took the interim title from his opponent with a major surprise in the later stages at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the month's conclusion

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

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

"Significant bouts in the future for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for more fighters
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the WBO
• The British fighter's journey from unconventional beginning to championship status continues to capture attention