Ukraine's Usyk makes high-profile statement regarding his career
Oleksandr Usyk has relinquished all the championship belts he currently holds (Instagram of Oleksandr Usyk)
The undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has decided not to defend his titles across all sanctioning bodies, according to Usyk’s Instagram page.
World boxing champion in the heavyweight division Oleksandr Usyk has posted a message on his Instagram page. In it, the athlete announced an important decision regarding his future career.
What Oleksandr Usyk said
The 39-year-old boxer stated that he is relinquishing his championship belts across all sanctioning bodies.
"Today is good weather and a good day to say that I want to leave all my belts that I currently hold. Make them vacant so that the guys who are waiting in line for them can fight.
Friends, I am leaving the belts, but I am not leaving the sport, because I have a 'last dance.' I want to thank everyone; I respect all organizations. I want to thank everyone and say, 'More to come.' Glory to God for everything, glory to Ukraine,” Usyk said.
Titles held by Oleksandr Usyk
The Ukrainian boxer is the current world heavyweight champion under the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF versions. He also holds the championship belt awarded by The Ring magazine.
Usyk’s last fight took place on May 23 in Egypt, where his opponent was Dutch fighter Rico Verhoeven. Usyk won by technical knockout in the 11th round.
Previously, it was reported that the WBC set a deadline for Usyk’s team to negotiate a title defense against mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel.
