Oleksandr Usyk has relinquished his WBO title.
The 38 year-old Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) became the unified heavyweight champion (again) after smashing Daniel Dubois last summer, which means the Ukrainian “Cat”
had four belts to defend. That was apparently too much to ask for a man of his age and experience.
“The World Boxing Organization (WBO) announced today that it has received formal communication from Team Oleksandr Usyk regarding the future of the WBO Heavyweight Championship,” official wrote in today’s statement. “After thoughtful consideration, Usyk has elected to relinquish the title.”
The strap has since been awarded to mandatory challenger Fabio Wardley (20-0-1, 19 KOs).
“Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport,” promoter Frank Warren wrote on social media. “One of the most incredible stories I’ve seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of Fabio Wardley. Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the sport.”
A date and opponent for the 30 year-old Wardley’s first title defense has yet to be determined.
