Usyk vacates belts: 'This is not the end of the story'

Oleksandr Usyk has vacated his world titles, calling the move a well-considered decision that will open new opportunities. The Ukrainian said his career is far from over.

“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.”

— Oleksandr Usyk, via BBC Sport

What Oleksandr Usyk said

Usyk held unified heavyweight belts after back-to-back wins over Tyson Fury in 2024. The former undisputed champion had been expected to face a mandatory challenger, but his decision to relinquish the straps clears the division for other contenders.

What it moves

Usyk's announcement leaves the heavyweight picture wide open. The sanctioning bodies will now move to crown new champions. His cryptic reference to the continuation ahead suggests a return is planned, though no opponent or timeline has been named.

Source: bbc.co.uk. Full Oleksandr Usyk fight history and recent news at boxingnews.com.