| BoxingTalk Story |
By Scott Shaffer
17/11/2025
The WBO announced today that it has received formal communication from Team Oleksandr Usyk stating that after thoughtful consideration, Oleksandr Usyk (pictured) has elected to relinquish the title. [He also holds the three other major titles]. The WBO said that it honors Usyk's historic career and calls this a respectful pause, not a farewell to the great Ukrainian champion. Presumably, WBO interim champion Fabio Wardley has been elevated to become the new WBO heavyweight champion, and that is exactly what Wardley's promoter, Queensberry Promotions tweeted: "Fabio Wardley is the new WBO heavyweight champion of the world! Massive congratulations Fabio and team."