Oleksandr Usyk Vacates 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 Wardley, 30, will assume Usyk’s belt and become the full champion. Usyk, after knocking out Daniel Dubois in June, became undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time, possessing all four belts. Subsequently, 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 to obtain the interim title, resulting in the Englishman’s rise to full heavyweight champion.After his victory over Parker, Wardley challenged Usyk, and his team was confident 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 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
