Oleksandr Usyk silence broken on giving up world | Boxing News
Oleksandr Usyk claims he surrendered one of his world titles to present alternatives for the next technology of fighters. Usyk possessed all 4 heavyweight belts but vacated his WBO strap when mandated to defend it against Fabio Wardley. Wardley was consequently elevated to full champion standing and will make his maiden defence in 2026.
The Ukrainian insists he needs to witness the Brit conflict with stablemate Moses Itauma. Usyk’s camp supervisor, Sergey Lapin, revealed: “Oleksandr vacated the belt to give young boxers a chance to fight for it. Let’s see how everything develops from here. Fabio Wardley vs. Moses Itauma would be a wonderful fight for both, and it would be very interesting to see who comes out on top.”
Wardley seized the interim title from Joseph Parker through a spectacular Eleventh-round stoppage last month and was mandated to face the Ukrainian.
However, the WBO confirmed Wardley as their new champion last week after beforehand acknowledging that Usyk, who unified the world titles by defeating another Briton, IBF champion Daniel Dubois in July, had formally communicated his resolution to relinquish the belt.
Wardley’s promoter Frank Warren posted on X: “Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport. “One of the most unimaginable tales I’ve seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I couldn’t be prouder of @FabioWardley. Some enormous fights forward for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy in the game.”
Wardley began his career in white-collar boxing, turning professional in 2017 and achieving an impressive streak of 17 consecutive victories. After a split-decision draw against Frazer Clarke in March 2024, he defeated the same opponent in just one round seven months later.
This was followed by a comeback victory over Justis Huni, securing his opportunity to face Parker.
With this achievement, Wardley joins the ranks of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Henry Akinwande, Herbie Hide and Michael Bentt as the sixth Briton to maintain the WBO heavyweight title.
Stay up to date with the latest developments in boxing! Our web site is your go-to source for cutting-edge boxing news, combat highlights, fighter stats, and insights into upcoming matches. We present daily updates to guarantee you might have access to the freshest data on rankings, combat outcomes, injury studies, and major bulletins.
Explore how these trends are shaping the future of the game! Visit us frequently for the most participating and informative boxing content by clicking right here. Our fastidiously curated articles will keep you informed on title fights, promotions, training camps, and historic moments in the ring.
