Oleksandr Usyk vacates WBA WBC and IBF belts as Last Dance plan sparks debate across boxing

Oleksandr Usyk has decided to give up his remaining heavyweight world titles, but he is not walking away from boxing yet. In a video shared on social media, the Ukrainian star announced that he is vacating the WBA, WBC and IBF belts so other contenders can fight for them.

At the same time, he made it clear that he still plans to return for one final bout, calling it his “Last Dance.” The announcement marks the end of his title reign, not the end of his career. The video was first shared by the ChampRDS X account and has since been widely reported.

Oleksandr Usyk explains why he is giving up his heavyweight world titles

Speaking directly to fans, Usyk said he wanted the next group of heavyweight boxers to have their chance at becoming champions.He said, “Today is Friday, the weather is beautiful, and it’s a good day to say that I want to vacate all the belts I currently hold.

I want to make them available so the guys who are next in line can fight for them. Friends, I’m leaving the belts, but I’m not leaving the sport, because I still have my Last Dance.” The move also gives Usyk freedom from mandatory title defenses. Champions are often required to face top-ranked challengers within strict timelines. By giving up the belts, he can now choose his final opponent without those obligations. His farewell fight has not been announced yet.

Usyk has already built one of boxing’s greatest careers. After becoming the undisputed cruiserweight champion, he moved up to heavyweight and defeated Anthony Joshua twice before adding victories over Tyson Fury and Daniel Dubois. He had already vacated the WBO title in 2025, and this latest decision means he no longer holds any heavyweight world championship.

Oleksandr Usyk’s announcement divides boxing fans after Rico Verhoeven fight

The timing of the announcement has sparked plenty of discussion because it comes only weeks after Usyk’s controversial win over Rico Verhoeven in Egypt.

Some fans believe he should have agreed to a rematch, while others feel he has earned the right to leave the championship race on his own terms. Many supporters praised Usyk for not holding on to the belts when he no longer plans to defend them. Others questioned whether he is avoiding mandatory challengers or simply chasing one final high-profile fight. There has also been online speculation about possible opponents, but no official announcement has been made.