The true explanation behind Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to vacate his WBO heavyweight belt has now been uncovered
Oleksandr Usyk stunned the boxing world on Monday night by vacating his WBO heavyweight title. The move officially ended his second stint as undisputed heavyweight champion, a reign he reclaimed in July when he stopped Daniel Dubois at Wembley to add the IBF belt to the WBA, WBC and WBO titles he already held.
The WBO confirmed the development in a public statement, though Usyk himself has yet to explain why he chose to relinquish the strap. His decision, however, brought immediate joy to Britain’s Fabio Wardley.
Just moments after the news broke, interim WBO champion Wardley was upgraded to full world champion. The Ipswich fighter had seemingly earned a shot at the belt after his contentious stoppage of Joseph Parker last month, but will now claim the gold without needing to fight for it. Wardley remains unbeaten in 21 bouts, with 19 wins coming by knockout.
In its statement, the WBO said:
“The World Boxing Organisation has received formal communication from Team Oleksandr Usyk regarding the future of the WBO Heavyweight Championship. After careful consideration, Usyk has chosen to vacate the title. We respect his decision. This is not a farewell but, as described by his team, a respectful pause. Our doors will always remain open to Oleksandr Usyk.”
While the organisation stressed there was no bad blood, it offered no explanation for the unexpected move.
Why Usyk Really Gave Up the WBO Belt
With speculation swirling, Sky Sports reporter Andy Scott dismissed claims that Usyk stepped aside to avoid Wardley. Instead, he pointed to a more practical reason behind the decision.
“He hasn’t explained why he’s surrendered the belt. He’s been dealing with a back injury, which sparked debate online because Usyk enjoys a celebration,” said Scott. “Some questioned whether that injury was the real reason he didn’t fight Wardley, and others even called it a duck.
“But let’s be honest — he’s fought everyone, everywhere, and never avoided a challenge. I don’t believe for a second that he’s running from Fabio Wardley.”
Scott suggested the real issue may be Usyk’s desire to avoid strict timelines imposed by governing bodies: “He’s 38 now. At that age, the back plays up, and he probably wants more recovery time while mapping out his own route out of boxing.”
Usyk recently hinted he intends to stay active until he turns 41 in January 2028. The Ukrainian star has often spoken about completing trilogies with Tyson Fury or Anthony Joshua — or even exploring an MMA bout with Jake Paul. Whatever comes next, it appears the former undisputed cruiserweight king is now focused solely on major fights as he charts his final years in the sport.
