Usyk Explains Why He Vacated the WBO Title
Hoje
Three-time undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk explained why he left the WBO title vacant and did not agree to defend the belt against then-interim champion Fabio Wardley.
“For me, it’s a very important belt — I won it.
When they told me: ‘You have to defend the WBO title,’ I said: ‘Yes, I can do it, but not now.’ I had a very tough year and a half with Tyson Fury — two fights, the camps for them. Then the win over Daniel Dubois. I say: ‘I’m not against it, I’ll do it — but not now.’
Listen, there’s sport and there’s business. If Parker had won — that would’ve been interesting to me. Wardley won — that’s not interesting to me. I’m saying it like it is.
Alright, take the belt, box, and maybe later we’ll fight a big fight. That’s what I think.
I wasn’t surprised that Fabio won, because I worked with Wardley. He’s a good fighter and a great guy. I respect him a lot because he works hard on his body. Training, training, constant training,” said Usyk.
Fabio Wardley was elevated to full champion after Usyk vacated the title.