Usyk vacates heavyweight titles but confirms plans for one last fight
Oleksandr Usyk has vacated his world title belts but confirmed that he is not retiring from the sport, reports BritPanorama.
The Ukrainian announced he will relinquish his WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles. He also stated that he will fight one last time before concluding his boxing career, though his opponent has yet to be determined.
In a video message shared on social media, Usyk expressed, “Today is Friday, the weather is beautiful. It’s a good day to say that I want to vacate all the belts I currently hold.” He emphasized his intention to make the titles available for others to contest, saying, “I want to make them available, so that the guys who are next in the line can fight for them.”
Usyk maintained his commitment to the boxing world, adding, “I’m leaving the belts, but I’m not leaving the sport because I still have my last dance.” He expressed gratitude to the organizations and fans, stating, “I want to thank everyone. I have great respect for all organisations. I want to thank everyone and say there’s more to come. Glory to God for everything. Glory to Ukraine.”
Last November, Usyk vacated his WBO title, allowing Fabio Wardley to take over the belt. This decision stripped him of the title as undisputed champion, which he had secured after defeating Tyson Fury. His championship reign included victories over notable opponents such as Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, with the WBA crown under his name for over four years.
Initially, Usyk was ordered to face Agit Kabayel in a scheduled bout; however, that fight will no longer occur following his recent announcement. He has not confirmed who his final opponent will be, although there are speculations that it could be kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven, who he defeated in May after a late stoppage. Verhoeven hinted at a rematch in a comment under Usyk’s announcement video, stating, “The last dance ‘rematch time’. Let’s make this the biggest crossover event of this era.”
Usyk leaves the sport boasting an impressive record of 25-0, with notable victories including two wins over Joshua in September 2021 and August 2022, and a pair of triumphs against Fury in May and December 2024. His last fight was a knockout against Dubois in 2023, solidifying his legacy in the sport as he chooses to step back with grace.
As Usyk prepares for this final chapter, it serves as a reminder of how the sport continuously evolves, with icons transitioning towards retirement while leaving behind a notable legacy. Whether his last dance will resonate as a hallmark of his storied career awaits the boxing world’s eager anticipation.
