In a surprising move that has reshaped the heavyweight boxing landscape, undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk has voluntarily relinquished his WBO title to create opportunities for younger fighters. The 38-year-old Ukrainian, who remains undefeated, made the decision last week, immediately elevating Britain's Fabio Wardley to full champion status.
A Champion's Generous Gesture
According to Sergey Lapin, Usyk's team director and close friend, the boxer's decision was motivated by a desire to support the next generation of heavyweight talent. 'Oleksandr vacated the belt to give young boxers the opportunity to fight for it,' Lapin revealed, emphasising the champion's thoughtful approach to his legacy.
Usyk had been expected to face Wardley, who spectacularly won the interim title against Joseph Parker last month. However, instead of defending against the Ipswich-born fighter, Usyk informed the WBO of his decision to vacate the prestigious belt, allowing Wardley to be automatically promoted to full champion.
Wardley's Reaction and Future Prospects
The newly crowned champion described Usyk's decision as 'strange' but now finds himself in possession of one of boxing's most coveted titles. Wardley, who stands at 6'3" (190cm), maintains an impressive undefeated record across 21 fights, with his only blemish being a split-decision draw against Frazer Clarke in March 2024 - a result he avenged decisively seven months later.
Lapin suggested that Usyk would like to see Wardley face another British prospect, specifically mentioning rising star Moses Itauma. 'Fabio Wardley against Moses Itauma would be a wonderful fight for both,' Lapin commented, 'and it would be very interesting to see who comes out victorious.'
Broader Implications for British Boxing
Wardley becomes only the sixth British boxer to hold the WBO heavyweight title, joining an elite group that includes previous British champions. His promotion comes at a time when speculation about future matchups is intensifying, with potential fights against Anthony Joshua being discussed for next year.
When questioned about facing Joshua, Wardley demonstrated his characteristic fighting spirit, telling Sky Sports: 'I'm open to all opportunities, to everyone who comes, to all boxers. One thing I've always had throughout my career is the mantra of never shying away or stepping back, always accepting the next biggest fight, and if that were him [Joshua], then it would be a pleasure to do it.'
Usyk's title consolidation came after his historic victory against Tyson Fury in May 2024, followed by another dominant performance against Daniel Dubois at Wembley in July. The Ukrainian typically fights once per year on average, and his future plans remain uncertain following the Dubois victory.
Had the Wardley-Usyk matchup proceeded, all four major heavyweight belts - WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO - would have been at stake. Instead, Usyk's unexpected generosity has created new opportunities within the British boxing scene, potentially setting up exciting domestic clashes that will capture the attention of fight fans nationwide.
