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England's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after Usyk decided to relinquish his world title

This development comes after the champion notified the WBO he would avoid a mandatory title defence against his mandatory opponent

WBO Statement

The championship body announced that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his championship following careful thought"

The Ukrainian maintains the multiple world titles, having beaten his British opponent at the famous London venue in the summer month to become a repeat unified title holder

He originally secured the four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by overcoming Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and opting out of facing the required opponent

"Boxing official Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a statement"

"The WBO extends its deep appreciation and respect to the Ukrainian champion, an perfect record holder across weight classes"

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

The WBO added that its organization will always welcome the fighter and his management"

Championship History

The champion captured the world title in recently by beating the British star and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a mandatory defence against temporary title holder Parker, only for a champion's back problem to force the postponement of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But Wardley, took the interim title from Parker with a major surprise in the championship rounds at London's O2 Arena in the previous month and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The WBO is yet to officially confirm the title change but his manager Warren believes it is a done deal

"The UK has a new heavyweight world champion and a emerging fighting personality"

"One of the most incredible stories I've seen in my 45 years as a boxing representative and I could not be more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the fighting community"

Wardley only began boxing relatively late, coming through the unlicensed white-collar scene and has had a limited professional record

Coming Challenges

• The anticipated title change represents an important development in the weight class
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship creates fresh possibilities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now anticipates verification from the WBO
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many