Oleksandr Usyk, the undefeated heavyweight boxing champion, has announced his decision to vacate the WBA 'super', WBC, and IBF belts he currently holds. The 39-year-old Ukrainian stated that this move is intended to allow other top contenders to compete for these titles while he determines his next career steps.
Usyk confirmed his decision on social media platform X, posting, "This is a well-considered decision that I am confident will open new opportunities for me. This is not the end of the story. The continuation lies ahead."
In a subsequent video message shared on Instagram, Usyk elaborated on his intentions. "I want to make them available so the guys who are next in line can fight for them," he said. "Friends, I'm leaving the belts but not leaving the sport because I still have the last dance." He expressed gratitude to the various organizations and affirmed his commitment to continuing his boxing career.
Usyk's recent activity included a fight against Rico Verhoeven in May, which concluded with an 11th-round stoppage victory for Usyk. At the time of the stoppage, Verhoeven was reportedly ahead on the scorecards, leading to a controversial end to the bout. Usyk had previously indicated a desire to have two more fights before concluding his career.
With Usyk relinquishing his championships, the landscape for the heavyweight division's titles shifts. WBC interim champion Agit Kabayel was the mandatory challenger for one of the belts, and Daniel Dubois holds the WBO belt. Usyk's decision means that Kabayel's opportunity to challenge Usyk directly for one of these titles is now unlikely.