Oleksandr Usyk’s Former Promoter Urges Retirement, Warns Against Fabio Wardley Fight

Fabio Wardley defeated Joseph Parker to claim the WBO interim heavyweight title, becoming the mandatory challenger to undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. Despite Wardley's victory, there was controversy over the referee's stoppage decision, which some deemed premature, though Wardley defended the call citing Parker's accumulation of damage. Oleksandr Usyk's former promoter and close business partner, Alexander Krassyuk, strongly advises Usyk against fighting Wardley, arguing the risk to Usyk's legacy outweighs any financial incentive unless a substantial payday is offered. Krassyuk advocates for Usyk to retire soon, comparing his situation to Lennox Lewis, who retired at the top of his career to avoid tarnishing his legacy. He believes Wardley lacks the name recognition and financial draw to justify the fight and emphasizes the importance of preserving Usyk's unbeaten record and 13 years of achievements. Usyk’s recent history includes becoming the first three-time undisputed champion and defeating Daniel Dubois, but his future fight with Wardley is met with skepticism from his former promoter, who prioritizes strategic career decisions over mandatory title defenses.