The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has officially directed reigning heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk to defend his title against interim champion Joseph Parker. The fighters have been given 30 days to reach an agreement, failing which the WBO will conduct a purse-bid hearing.
Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs), a former WBO heavyweight champion from New Zealand, held the title from 2016 to 2018 before losing it to Anthony Joshua. After facing setbacks, including a knockout defeat to Joe Joyce in 2022, Parker revived his career with significant wins against Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang. His most recent triumph came in February when he stopped Martin Bakole in two rounds.
Oleksandr Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs), considered one of the world’s best pound-for-pound boxers, became the undisputed heavyweight champion in May 2024 after defeating Tyson Fury via split decision. He solidified his dominance with a unanimous decision win in their December rematch.
However, despite the WBO’s directive, Usyk appears focused on a rematch with IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois. His promoter, Alex Krassyuk, revealed that negotiations for Usyk vs. Dubois 2 are underway, with Wembley Stadium being considered as the potential venue.
