The heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk, has vacated his WBO world title. This decision has resulted in the Briton Fabio Wardley being promoted to full world champion.The World Boxing Organization (WBO) confirmed that Wardley, 30, will take Usyk’s belt, becoming the complete champion.Usyk, who previously defeated Daniel Dubois in June, to become undisputed heavyweight champion, held all four division belts.Subsequently, the WBO ordered Usyk to face the interim champion at that time, Joseph Parker.However, citing an injury, Usyk gained additional time to recover, while Parker chose to fight Wardley to stay active.In London, on October 25th, Wardley surprised Parker with a stoppage in the eleventh round, obtaining the interim title. This has led to the English boxer being elevated to full heavyweight champion.
The WBO expressed its deep respect and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undisputed two-division world champion of the WBO, highlighting his extraordinary career in modern boxing.After his victory over Parker, Wardley challenged Usyk, and his team was confident that the fight would materialize. However, Usyk’s decision to vacate the title suggests that he might not face Wardley next.Usyk, who was also undisputed at cruiserweight before conquering the heavyweight division, has mentioned that he will fight in 2026, but his next move is still unclear.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
