Usyk lost his status as absolute world champion: what happened and how it changes the balance of power in heavyweight boxing
17 November 23:40
Ukrainian champion Oleksandr Usyk has unexpectedly vacated his WBO heavyweight belt. This decision means that he has lost the status of absolute world champion, which he held after unifying all the key titles in the division. This was officially announced by the World Boxing Organization on its X page, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
What is known about Usyk’s decision
The WBO has confirmed that the Ukrainian agreed to vacate his title after a conversation with representatives of the organization. No formal reason was given, but it is reported that the decision was made jointly.
Thus, Usyk gave up one of his five belts – the one that determined the mandatory challenger he was to meet next.
Who is the new WBO world champion now
After the WBO title was vacated, Fabio Wardley became the WBO world champion.
The British boxer won the interim WBO belt in a fight with New Zealander Joseph Parker, who was previously a mandatory contender for a fight with Usyk.
What belts does Usyk still have?
Despite losing the WBO, Oleksandr Usyk continues to hold other titles:
- WBC
- WBA
- IBF
- IBO.
That is, he remains the champion of the four leading versions at once, but he is no longer an absolute champion.
Why Usyk could take this step
There are no official explanations, but there are several logical reasons:
- A pause in his career
In August 2025, Usyk’s team director Serhiy Lapin said that the boxer was planning to take a break to rest after winning four titles.
- Avoiding forced defense
The WBO insisted on a fight with an official challenger. If the boxer does not have time or does not agree, the title has to be vacated.
- Focus on bigger fights
It is possible that Usyk’s team wants to organize fights that make more sporting or commercial sense than the mandatory WBO defense.
It should be noted that Usyk has officially become one of the richest boxers in the world. The British publication GiveMeSport has published a ranking of the richest boxers of all time, and the Ukrainian took the honorable fifth place.
Usyk’s fortune is estimated at $214 million, which is $68 million more than his main rival in the ring, Tyson Fury.
It is noted that Oleksandr Usyk is estimated to have earned about $100 million for his second victory over Tyson Fury.
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