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Britain's boxing star is expected to be elevated to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion chose to vacate his world title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a required championship defense against the British challenger

Boxing Organization's Position

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his belt after deep reflection"

Usyk still holds the WBA, WBC and IBF heavyweight titles, having beaten his British opponent at Wembley Stadium in mid-year to become a double undisputed champion

He first became the all-belt title holder in last year by beating Tyson Fury, before relinquishing one championship a month afterwards and choosing to avoid the mandatory challenger

"WBO president Olivieri called Usyk "a champion of champions" in a announcement"

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

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

The WBO added that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Title Reign

Usyk won the championship in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and went on to protect his title repeatedly

In July, the championship body required discussions for a obligatory championship fight 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, 30, took the interim title from the New Zealander with a major surprise in the 11th round at the famous London arena recently and was mandated to face Usyk before the end of September

The boxing organization hasn't formally announced the British fighter's elevation but his representative 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 more pleased for Wardley"

"Some huge fights ahead for the coming period as he protects his championship and creates a true legacy in the sport"

Wardley entered the sport aged 20, developing through alternative boxing and has had a limited professional record

Future Prospects

• The likely championship upgrade marks a significant moment in the weight class
• The champion's choice to relinquish the title opens new opportunities for additional challengers
• The boxing world now expects formal announcement from the boxing organization
• The champion's path from unconventional beginning to title holder continues to inspire many