Oleksandr Usyk was granted an extension on talks with interim champion Joseph Parker by the WBO due to a back injury, however the challenger’s team called this into question when a video emerged of the Ukrainian dancing.
A clip on social media showed the undisputed champion dancing seemingly without pain. Though the exact date of filming was not made clear, this still prompted speculation as to his injury and the severity of it.
Speaking to Fruity King, Director of Team Usyk, Sergey Lapin, responded to the allegations made by Parker’s promoter David Higgins that the video made his injury suspicious. Though he only briefly addressed the situation, he did leave the door open for the Parker fight to still happen.
“People can talk [about Usyk’s injury] but those close to boxing know the price of preparation at this level. We don’t make decisions for the sake of talking, we make them for results.
“Joseph Parker is experienced and has character, he has already proven himself at the highest level. For boxing, such a fight is always a plus – it’s exciting and draws public interest. We treat him with respect.
“There will always be talk about the last fight when it comes to great champions. But only time tells the truth. Today, Usyk has strength, desire, and his own path. We go step by step, and the road itself will write the future.
“Everyone has their own view of the next fight. We always choose the path that carries meaning, for the team and for the history of boxing. Preferences exist, but the main thing is the right timing and the right meaning.”
Lapin did not specifically address the order from the WBO to provide new medical evidence of the injury, and the sanctioning body is yet to provide an update as to its next steps in the saga.
