Unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered to face Joseph Parker next by the WBO.
The New Zealander picked up the sanctioning body’s Interim Title with a hard-fought win over Zhilei Zhang in March, 2024. He was then set to face IBF Champion Dubois last month, however the Brit pulled out due to illness and Parker instead beat late replacement Martin Bakole to retain his belt.
Usyk has made it clear that he wants a rematch with Dubois in a bid to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion, however the WBO’s order may have halted any talks for that to take place.
Speaking to the New Zealand Herald, Parker’s longtime manager David Higgins welcomed the news and is excited to see how it unfolds.
“This has happened because of the WBO rules. So it appears that WBO are seeking to enforce the WBO rules, meaning that Usyk has to give Joseph Parker a shot given that Parker has been their number one ranked contender for like a year or more.
“So this is normal and this was foreseeable. It’s not a surprise, but sometimes backroom negotiations buy more time. It is fascinating to see how this is going to play out.”
Team Parker feel they are in a good place regardless of whether or not a deal can be made for Usyk and Dubois to still fight for undisputed, meaning Parker would get the shot straight after.
Having said that, Higgins confirmed that his charge is ready for either of the champions next.
“If it’s not the next fight, it’ll be the one after. And so we’re not panicking. In fact, this is, this is exciting times for Joseph Parker. He’ll fight anyone. And on the roll he’s on, in the form he’s in, he’s not worried about anyone.
“And if the Usyk fight was offered, he’d take it in a heartbeat. And if Dubois was offered, he’d take it in a heartbeat.”
More is expected soon as to who faces who, with Anthony Joshua likely to be in the mix as well.
