Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes WBO Heavyweight Title; Fabio Wardley Ascends
The heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk, has relinquished his WBO world title. This decision has led to the British Fabio Wardley being promoted to full world champion. The WBO confirmed that Wardley, 30, will take Usyk’s belt, becoming the full champion after the announcement of the Ukrainian’s title vacancy. Usyk, who knocked out Daniel Dubois in June, to become undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time, possessed all four belts. The WBO ordered Usyk to face the interim champion at that time, Joseph Parker. However, Usyk, citing an injury, received additional time to recover, while Parker opted to fight Wardley to stay active. On October 25th in London, Wardley surprised Parker with a stoppage in the eleventh round, obtaining the interim title, which has resulted in the Englishman’s rise to full heavyweight champion.WBO expressed its deep respect, admiration, and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undisputed world champion in two WBO divisions, and a boxer who has earned and exemplified every right, privilege, and honor associated with the distinction of WBO Super Champion. His career is one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era. After his victory over Parker, Wardley challenged Usyk, and his team showed confidence that the fight could happen. However, Usyk’s relinquishing of the belt indicates that he might not face Wardley next. Usyk, who was also undisputed at cruiserweight before conquering the heavyweight division, has said he will fight in 2026, but his next move is uncertain.The World Boxing Organization (WBO) announced today that it has received formal communication from Oleksandr Usyk’s team regarding the future of the WBO Heavyweight Championship. After careful consideration, Usyk has chosen to relinquish the title.
WBO Statement
