The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has officially ordered Oleksandr Usyk to defend his heavyweight title against interim champion Joseph Parker, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster fight.
Usyk, the reigning WBO, WBA, and WBC heavyweight champion, has 30 days to negotiate with Parker before the fight goes to a purse bid. However, the Ukrainian champion may have other plans, as his team is already in talks for a rematch with IBF champion Daniel Dubois.
Parker, a former WBO heavyweight champion, has revitalized his career with major wins over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole after suffering a knockout loss to Joe Joyce in 2022. Meanwhile, Usyk remains undefeated (23-0, 14 KOs) and cemented his legacy by beating Tyson Fury twice in 2024.
With Usyk eyeing a Wembley showdown with Dubois, will he comply with the WBO’s order or push for the rematch? Boxing fans are in for a dramatic twist in the heavyweight division.
