Oleksandr Usyk Relinquishes WBO World Heavyweight Title
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. This announcement comes after Usyk’s decision to vacate the title. Usyk, who knocked out Daniel Dubois in June, to become undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time, possessed all four belts. The WBO had ordered Usyk to face the interim champion at that time, Joseph Parker. However, Usyk, citing an injury, received additional time to recover. 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 WBO expressed its deep respect and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undisputed WBO world champion in two divisions and undefeated. His career is considered historic in modern boxing. After his victory over Parker, Wardley challenged Usyk, and his team was confident the fight would take place. However, Usyk’s relinquishing of the belt suggests 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 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 decided to relinquish the title.
WBO Statement
