WBO Orders Negotiations Between Usyk, Parker For Heavyweight Title

Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight champion, recently secured a dominant fifth-round knockout of Daniel Dubois, reaffirming his status as one of the greatest heavyweights of his era. Despite his victories over top fighters like Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, there is significant pressure from promoters and boxing authorities for Usyk to face Joseph Parker next, who is the WBO interim heavyweight champion and mandatory challenger. Parker's camp and notable promoters, including Frank Warren and David Higgins, insist that a fight between Usyk and Parker is essential to cement Usyk's legacy and unify the heavyweight division. Although Usyk has mentioned other potential opponents such as Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Derek Chisora, the WBO has ordered negotiations for a Usyk-Parker bout, with the stipulation that Usyk must fight Parker or vacate the WBO title. Financial considerations and marketability remain factors, as some view a Usyk-Parker fight as less lucrative compared to bouts involving Fury or Joshua, but the boxing community largely favors this matchup to maintain the sport's integrity. Parker is eager for the fight, expressing willingness to compete anytime and anywhere, ideally before the end of the year, possibly in the UK or Saudi Arabia.