Fabio Wardley says he cannot understand Oleksandr Usyk's "strange" decision to vacate the WBO heavyweight title instead of defending it against him.

Wardley was elevated to WBO champion following confirmation that Usyk was relinquishing the belt after being ordered to face the British challenger next.

The unbeaten 30 year-old had earned the WBO interim title and a shot at Usyk after his stunning 11th round stoppage of Joseph Parker at The O2 last month.

Asked if he could understand Usyk's decision, Wardley told Sky Sports News : "I don't necessarily know if I can.

"I don't know what he may be planning for himself, whether that be retirement, whether it be a different fight, whether it be another alternative.

"Obviously, we're seeing loads of variations with fighters and what they're

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