Oleksandr Usyk informed the WBO that he will no longer continue as their heavyweight champion. Once the organization received the official update from his team, the belt moved directly to Fabio Wardley, who had been holding the interim position after his victory in London.
Usyk had collected the WBO belt during his dominant run across the division, which included his knockout win over Daniel Dubois that secured his second undisputed heavyweight reign. Following that triumph, the WBO instructed him to meet Joseph Parker, who was serving as interim champion at that time.
Because Usyk needed extra recovery time for a back issue, he received an extension from the sanctioning body. Parker, wanting to remain active, chose to face Wardley instead. Their contest at the O2 Arena on October twenty fifth delivered one of the biggest results of the season when Wardley finished Parker in the eleventh round. That performance gave Wardley the interim position and placed him first in line when Usyk’s status changed.
WBO issues its formal statement on the championship change
The WBO later sent out a clear message acknowledging the transition.
“The World Boxing Organization announced today that it has received formal communication from Team Oleksandr Usyk regarding the future of the WBO Heavyweight Championship. After thoughtful consideration, Usyk has elected to relinquish the title,” the statement said.
The organization continued with high praise for the Ukrainian champion.
“The WBO extends its profound respect, admiration, and gratitude to Oleksandr Usyk, an undefeated, two division WBO Undisputed World Champion, and a fighter who has earned and exemplified every right, privilege, and honor associated with the WBO Super Champion distinction. His career stands as one of the most extraordinary and historic of the modern boxing era.”
Wardley had voiced his willingness to meet Usyk after defeating Parker, and members of his team felt that matchup could realistically take place. Usyk stepping away from the belt signals that the bout is unlikely for now, leaving fans waiting to see what direction Usyk will take when he returns. He has stated previously that he will compete again in 2026, though without any confirmed opponent or schedule.
Usyk first won the WBO heavyweight belt in 2021 by defeating Anthony Joshua and followed it with four successful defenses. His injury delayed the originally ordered meeting with Parker earlier this year, which opened the path that eventually led to Wardley’s interim run.
Once Wardley earned his position, the WBO confirmed that his elevation to full champion would take effect immediately. His promoter Frank Warren reacted enthusiastically, writing;
“Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport. One of the most incredible stories I have seen in my forty five 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.”
Britain has a new heavyweight world champion and a new star of the sport.
One of the most incredible stories I’ve seen in my 45 years as a promoter and I could not be prouder of @FabioWardley.
Some huge fights ahead for 2026 as he defends his WBO belt and creates a true legacy… pic.twitter.com/XYapl0vs9n
— Frank Warren (@FrankWarren) November 17, 2025
Wardley entered the sport at twenty years old, beginning in the white collar scene before transitioning into the professional ranks. With only twenty one fights on his record, he now moves into the top position in the WBO standings and prepares for an important new stage of his career.
