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The UK's boxing star will be upgraded to heavyweight title holder after Oleksandr Usyk opted to give up his title

This follows after Usyk told boxing authorities he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk had "elected to relinquish his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk continues to possess the multiple world 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 four-belt undisputed champion in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before giving up the IBF title shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Boxing official Gustavo Olivieri described Usyk as exceptional in a announcement"

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

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the recent fighting history"

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

Title Reign

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

In July, the boxing organization mandated talks for a required title defense against New Zealand's Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to require rescheduling of the fight

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a huge upset in the later stages at the famous London arena recently 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"

"Among the most remarkable journeys during my long career as a promoter and I could not be happier for the British fighter"

"Major contests coming up for the coming period as he maintains his title and creates a true legacy in the boxing world"

Wardley entered the sport relatively late, emerging from the amateur circuit and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• Wardley's expected promotion represents an important development in the division
• The Ukrainian's move to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The boxing world now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• Wardley's story from alternative background to championship status continues to motivate others