The recent news that Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered to face Joseph Parker has sparked mixed reactions in the boxing world, with one of the most notable responses coming from Tyson Fury. Usyk, who was crowned the undisputed heavyweight champion after defeating Fury in May and again in December, now faces a new challenge mandated by the World Boxing Organization (WBO).
Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois, elevated to IBF full champion after his victory over Anthony Joshua, had his sights set on a unification bout with Usyk. However, Dubois’ plans have been complicated by the WBO’s decision.
The situation took a turn when Joseph Parker, the interim WBO champion, was named Usyk’s next mandatory challenger. Parker, riding a wave of impressive victories—including wins over Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang—has earned widespread recognition from fans and analysts alike.
His recent victory over Martin Bakole, who replaced Dubois at the last minute, further solidified his status as an elite contender. Despite Dubois’ team pushing for a unification fight, the WBO has intervened, ordering Usyk and Parker to negotiate a deal within 30 days. If no agreement is reached, the fight will go to a purse bid.
Oleksandr Usyk celebrates victory after defeating Daniel Dubois during the Heavyweight fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois at Stadion Wroclaw on August 26, 2023 in Wroclaw, Poland. (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images)
Tyson Fury’s reaction
The WBO’s decision has been met with approval by Tyson Fury, who took to social media to express his support for Parker. “About time as well,” Fury said on Instagram, adding, “Give Joseph Parker his shot.” Fury’s reaction echoes the sentiment of many fans who believe Parker has proven himself worthy of a title opportunity. Despite losing to Usyk twice, Fury has no hesitation in acknowledging Parker’s credentials.
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Uncertainty in the heavyweight division
The heavyweight division is in a state of flux, with multiple contenders vying for their shot at the title. The WBO’s order has added a new layer of intrigue, putting Dubois’ plans on hold and raising questions about Usyk’s next move. The possibility of Dubois negotiating a step-aside deal with Parker to secure his own unification fight remains a topic of speculation.
As for Tyson Fury, after his second loss to Usyk, he announced his retirement from boxing, ruling out a potential showdown with Anthony Joshua, another boxer who has fallen short against Usyk. Fury’s decision has left a void in the division, but his influence in the boxing world remains as strong as ever.
