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 knocked out Daniel Dubois in June to become 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, obtained additional time to recover, while Parker chose 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 expressed confidence 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 not clear.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. The WBO extends its deep respect, admiration, and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undisputed WBO world champion in two divisions, and a fighter 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
