Usyk Vacates WBO Title Amid Wardley Fight Controversy
Oleksandr Usyk has found himself at the centre of a brewing storm in the heavyweight boxing division after relinquishing his WBO world championship belt last year. The Ukrainian fighter opted to vacate the title rather than face mandatory challenger Fabio Wardley, a decision that has sparked accusations of evasion from Wardley's camp.
Accusations of Ducking and a New Nickname Emerge
Wardley's manager, Mike Ofo, has been vocal in his criticism, suggesting that Usyk's actions were a deliberate avoidance tactic. "Now the world can see that Usyk was just ducking Fabio by claiming he was fighting Wilder. Clearly that isn't happening and Usyk is still running away from fighting Fabio," Ofo told Sky Sports. He went further, proposing a new moniker for the former champion: "He should change his name to Oleksandr Ducksyk."
This move elevated Wardley to full champion status, while Usyk shifted his focus towards a potential bout with Deontay Wilder. However, those plans have hit a significant roadblock, with Wilder now scheduled to fight Derek Chisora in London this April. This development leaves Usyk without a confirmed opponent, adding fuel to the allegations that he is sidestepping a mandatory defence.
Wardley's Path and Fury's Potential Return
Meanwhile, Fabio Wardley is preparing to announce his first title defence. His team has expressed a strong desire for a blockbuster all-British showdown with former two-time champion Tyson Fury, who recently announced his return to the ring following a twelve-month retirement. Mike Ofo confirmed that this high-profile clash could materialise as early as this summer.
"Fabio is more than up for fighting Tyson and would welcome what would be a huge event for British boxing this summer. Lets get it on!" Ofo declared, emphasising the magnitude such a fight would hold for the sport in the UK.
Fury's Social Media Challenge and Respect for Joshua
Tyson Fury has added to the speculation by taking to social media to outline his plans. "Like I said, let’s see how I am looking in my return fight, then later in 2026 this would be a good option for me to try [and] become [three-time] heavyweight champion," Fury stated, acknowledging Wardley's upcoming challenge.
He also addressed the public's appetite for a fight with Anthony Joshua, but showed restraint given recent circumstances. "I know the fight you guys all want [Anthony Joshua] but, at this time, I won’t say his name out of respect, as he is in mourning. But if he is not going to continue in boxing, I’d like Big Fab as a big test. This would be a massive spectacle!"
The heavyweight landscape is now poised for significant shifts. With Usyk currently without a fight, Wardley eyeing a historic defence, and Fury plotting a comeback, the coming months promise high drama and potential super-fights that could redefine the division's hierarchy.
