Oleksandr Usyk has officially vacated his WBO heavyweight world title, bringing an end to his second tenure as undisputed champion. The move follows the World Boxing Organisation's order for the Ukrainian star to defend his title against Britain’s Fabio Wardley, who recently captured the interim championship with an 11th-round stoppage victory over Joseph Parker at The O2 Arena.

With Usyk’s decision to step aside, Wardley is now recognised as the full WBO heavyweight champion. Speaking on the achievement, the undefeated British fighter expressed his long-held ambition to share the ring with Usyk, saying:
 “That has been the goal for a number of years. That’s everything I’ve wanted.”

In an official statement, the WBO described Usyk’s choice to vacate the belt as “a respectful pause” rather than a permanent departure from the organisation, adding:
“The doors of the WBO will always remain open to Oleksandr Usyk and his team.”

Usyk did not proceed with the mandatory defense due to injury and has yet to confirm his future plans. His next steps remain a point of significant interest, particularly after reclaiming the IBF heavyweight title in a recent victory over Daniel Dubois.

Wardley’s rise adds another chapter to Britain’s rich heavyweight boxing history, placing him alongside former champions such as Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. His professional record now stands at 20 wins, 19 by knockout, and one draw, which he later avenged with a first-round stoppage of Frazer Clarke.

The development also intensifies speculation around potential marquee bouts, including a possible trilogy fight between Usyk and Fury, though no official announcements have been made.