No longer undisputed champion: Ukraine's Usyk relinquishes WBO belt
Photo: Oleksandr Usyk (Getty Images)
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk has decided to relinquish his WBO heavyweight title, thereby losing his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion, according to the WBO on Twitter (X).
"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. After a thoughtful consideration, Usyk has elected to relinquish the title," the WBO stated.
WBO President Gustavo Olivieri expressed deep respect, admiration, and gratitude toward Usyk.
"His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era," he emphasized.
"We accept and respect his decision to relinquish the WBO heavyweight super championship. This is not a farewell but — as expressed by his team — a respectful pause. The doors of the WBO will always remain open to Oleksandr Usyk and his team," the organization added.
Usyk’s decision to vacate the title allows Fabio Wardley to become the full champion. Previously, the undefeated British boxer held the status of interim champion
Usyk’s victory over Dubois
In July, Oleksandr Usyk defeated Daniel Dubois in a rematch at Wembley, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion in the four-belt era. The Ukrainian boxer captured the WBA, WBO, WBC, and IBF titles, solidifying his status as the leader in his division.
From the opening rounds, Dubois tried to apply pressure and target Usyk’s body, using his size advantage, while Usyk moved carefully and confidently on his feet.
The turning point came in the fifth round: Usyk found his rhythm and began successfully breaking through Dubois’ defense. Usyk’s speed and tactical intelligence caused the Briton to take increasingly more punches, lose confidence, and ultimately get knocked out after two knockdowns.
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