Oleksandr Usyk Vacates 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 and become the full champion. Usyk, who previously defeated Daniel Dubois in June, to become the undisputed heavyweight champion, possessing all four belts, was subsequently required by the WBO 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 resulted in his rise to full heavyweight champion.The WBO expressed its respect, admiration, and gratitude to Usyk, an undisputed two-division world champion of the WBO, highlighting his historic career in modern boxing.The World Boxing Organization (WBO) announced 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
Following his victory over Parker, Wardley challenged Usyk and his team was confident the fight would materialize. 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.
