Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes WBO World Heavyweight Title
The heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk, has relinquished his WBO world title. This decision has led to the Briton Fabio Wardley being promoted to full world champion. The WBO confirmed that 30-year-old Wardley will take Usyk’s belt and become the full champion. The official announcement came after the Ukrainian boxer’s decision to relinquish the title. Usyk, who previously defeated Daniel Dubois in June, to become the undisputed heavyweight champion, possessing all four major belts. Subsequently, the WBO ordered Usyk to face the interim champion at that time, Joseph Parker. However, Usyk requested additional time to recover from an injury, while Parker chose 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. This has resulted in Wardley’s rise to full heavyweight champion.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
The WBO extends its deep respect, admiration, and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undisputed world champion of two WBO divisions, and a boxer who has earned and exemplified all the rights, privileges, and honors associated with the distinction of WBO Super Champion. His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era.
WBO Statement
Following his victory over Parker, Wardley challenged Usyk and his team expressed confidence that the fight would take place. However, Usyk’s relinquishment of the belt suggests that he might not face Wardley in his next fight.
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 uncertain.
