The Ukrainian became a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion last month – but was quickly ordered to defend one of his titles against the Kiwi sensation
Oleksandr Usyk has requested an extension on negotiations to fight Joseph Parker due to injury.
Last month, it was revealed that the Ukrainian was ordered to defend his WBO heavyweight title against the Kiwi heavyweight star – or risks losing the coveted strap. It came soon after Usyk became an undisputed heavyweight champion for a second time after knocking out Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium.
Just weeks on from the WBO’s order, boxing promoter Frank Warren has revealed that the Ukrainian star has asked for an “extension period” because he is injured. Alternatively, Parker could go on to face the winner of Moses Itauma’s fight with Dillian Whyte – should Usyk decide to vacate the WBO title.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Warren said: “The WBO have put out about a month ago that Joe Parker – who is their interim champion – has to challenge against (Oleksandr) Usyk and Usyk has to defend against him. He has put a letter in yesterday, I found out today, stating that he has asked for an extension period because he is injured before being ordered to do anything.
READ MORE: Tony Bellew involved in furious row with Tommy Robinson – ‘Mouthy p****’READ MORE: Moses Itauma’s trainer makes ‘dog fight’ admission ahead of Dillian Whyte fight
“But whatever happens, the fact is that Joe Parker will either as champion, if Usyk vacates the title, or he will face Usyk for the title. So, it’s exciting times if Moses (Itauma) were to win or even if Dillian (Whyte) wins… whoever wins that fight, they are in the one spot. And if the fight does not happen with Usyk and Joe, then Joe will have to fight the official number one contender.”
Last month, the governing body sent an official letter to both Usyk and Parker – which read: “Gentlemen: Please be advised that the WBO World Championship Committee is hereby ordering the commencement of negotiations between the subject matter fighters to discharge the mandatory title defence obligation.
“By virtue of this order, the parties have thirty (30) days upon issuance of this letter to reach terms. Failure to do so will result in this committee ordering purse bid proceedings in accordance with WBO regulations of World Championship Contests. The minimum bid in the Heavyweight division is one-million dollars ($1,000,000.00). Any of the parties herein may request purse bid proceedings at any time during negotiation stages.
“Lastly, the WBO reserves its right to issue any and all further rulings deemed necessary, helpful and convenient to accomplish the purposes, policies, and intent of the WBO rules, including but not limited to serving those interests that best serve boxing, and the WBO Heavyweight Division. Do not hesitate to contact the WBO headquarters if you have any questions or concerns.”
Earlier this year, Usyk had revealed he has two more fights in him before officially calling it a day. After knocking out Dubois, the Ukrainian is set for one more outing – and it is fair to say he is not short of options. Earlier this month, it was revealed that the two-division undisputed champion has a three-man hit-list ahead of his final fight.
According to 112 Ukraine, Tyson Fury is still in consideration for a trilogy fight. Another name on the the 38-year-old’s list is heavyweight sensation, Joseph Parker. The final name on the stacked list is Paul. Both Usyk and Paul faced off in the ring after the former’s win over Dubois last month – hinting at a potential showdown between the pair.
When is Oleksandr Usyk’s next fight?
It appears Usyk will take a well-deserved break for the remainder of the year to relax and enjoy precious moments with his family before considering his next move in the squared circle. Following his victory over Dubois, the Ukrainian champion reflected on his age, declaring: “38 is a young guy, remember! 38 is only the start!
“I want to say thank you to Jesus Christ. I want to say thank you to my team and Wembley, thank you so much! It’s for the people. Nothing is next. It’s enough, next, I don’t know. I want to rest. My family, my wife, my children, I want to rest now. Two or three months, I want to just rest.” He continued: “Maybe it’s Tyson Fury,” Usyk added. “Maybe we have three choices, Derek Chisora and Anthony Joshua. Maybe Joseph Parker. Listen, I cannot now say because I want to go back home.”