Eddie Hearn Explains Why Oleksandr Usyk Vacated Heavyweight Titles

Posted : 27 June 2026

Oleksandr Usyk has shocked the boxing world by vacating all of his heavyweight world titles, but promoter Eddie Hearn believes the decision was driven by more than just giving other contenders an opportunity.

The undefeated Ukrainian announced on social media that he was relinquishing his WBA (Super), WBC and IBF heavyweight belts with immediate effect. Usyk explained that he wanted the next generation of heavyweight contenders to compete for the vacant championships while confirming he still intends to have one final professional fight.

In his statement, the 39-year-old described the next chapter of his career as his "last dance" and stressed that stepping away from the titles did not mean he was retiring from boxing.

Hearn, however, believes the decision also allows Usyk to avoid the obligations that come with holding multiple world championships.

According to the Matchroom Boxing chairman, unified champions are required to satisfy mandatory challengers set by different sanctioning bodies, limiting their freedom to choose opponents. Hearn suggested that after achieving everything possible in the sport, Usyk now wants complete control over when and whom he fights.

The announcement came only days before a deadline for negotiations over a mandatory WBC title defence against unbeaten German contender Agit Kabayel. With Usyk surrendering the belt, that contest is now unlikely to take place, opening the door for Kabayel to be elevated to full WBC heavyweight champion.

Hearn also revealed the opponent he believes would make the most sense for Usyk's farewell bout. He backed a rematch with Dutch kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven following their controversial meeting last month.

The British promoter argued that a second fight with Verhoeven would generate greater commercial interest than a mandatory title defence. He also believes the rematch would settle lingering questions from their first contest and could become a landmark event if staged in Amsterdam.

Hearn added that he expects Usyk to win a rematch comfortably and suggested the former undisputed champion has already decided that one more appearance will mark the end of his remarkable career.

Usyk has not yet confirmed the identity of his final opponent, but his decision to relinquish every major heavyweight title has dramatically reshaped the division and created opportunities for several leading contenders to compete for world championship honours.

Eddie Hearn Explains Why Oleksandr Usyk Vacated Heavyweight Titles

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