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Britain's Fabio Wardley will be upgraded to world boxing champion after the Ukrainian champion opted to give up his title

This situation arises after Ukrainian fighter informed the World Boxing Organisation he would not engage in a mandatory title defence against Wardley

Official Announcement

The boxing organization confirmed that Usyk chose to vacate his championship following careful thought"

Usyk continues to possess the three major championship belts, having beaten his British opponent at the national stadium in July to become a double undisputed champion

He originally secured the all-belt title holder in spring 2024 by defeating the British champion, before relinquishing one championship shortly after and deciding not to fight the required opponent

"Organization head Olivieri praised the Ukrainian fighter in a statement"

"The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration and gratitude to the Ukrainian champion, an unbeaten multi-division champion"

"His record represents one of the most impressive and memorable of the modern boxing era"

The organization continued that its institution will continue to support the fighter and his management"

Championship History

Usyk secured 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 obligatory championship fight against interim champion Joseph Parker, only for a Usyk's physical issue to force the postponement of the bout

British Fighter's Journey

But the 30-year-old British fighter, captured the temporary championship from the New Zealander with a significant shock in the championship rounds at the capital's venue in the previous month and was required to challenge Usyk before the month's conclusion

The championship body still needs to verify the British fighter's elevation but his promoter Frank Warren believes it is a done deal

"Britain has a recent title holder and a emerging fighting personality"

"A truly extraordinary path during my long career as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley"

"Significant bouts in the future for next year as he defends his WBO belt and builds his reputation in the boxing world"

The champion started fighting relatively late, developing through alternative boxing and has had just 21 professional fights

Coming Challenges

• The likely championship upgrade represents an important development in the division
• Usyk's decision to give up the championship opens new opportunities for other contenders
• The sport now awaits official confirmation from the boxing organization
• The British fighter's journey from alternative background to championship status continues to inspire many