By: Sean Crose
The World Boxing Organization has thrown down the gauntlet, requiring Oleksandr Usyk to defend his heavyweight title against former WBO champ Joseph Parker. Usyk, who spectacularly bested Tyson Fury twice last year, is facing a crucial decision: take on Parker or relinquish his WBO crown. Although the Ukrainian boxing phenom also holds the WBC and WBA titles, he’d surely prefer to keep the WBO belt in his trophy case. The organization stipulates, “The parties have 30 days to reach terms. Failure to do so will result in this Committee ordering purse bid proceedings in accordance with WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests.”
Usyk has undeniably solidified his status as the top heavyweight in boxing. He hasn’t just triumphed over Fury twice; he’s also defeated Anthony Joshua in back-to-back bouts. At this point, no one seems like a legitimate threat to his reign. Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois holds the IBF heavyweight title—another belt Usyk would likely love to reclaim. For those who recall, Dubois nearly floored Usyk with a body shot during their previous encounter a few years ago. However, the punch was deemed a low blow, and Usyk eventually stopped the Brit before the match ended. A rematch could certainly bring some excitement.
Yet, squaring off with Parker has its own appeal. Despite a couple of losses, Parker’s been on a roll lately, and his unconventional fighting style might just give Usyk something to ponder. While opinions may vary regarding an Usyk-Parker match, it undeniably piques interest. As the saying goes, styles make fights.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Usyk. Having once claimed the undisputed title, it’s not like he hasn’t already scaled the sport’s highest peak. While holding the WBO and IBF belts would be prestigious, one has to wonder if Usyk feels a compelling urge to regain them. Already hailed as one of the heavyweight greats, how many more accolades does he truly need? Nonetheless, boxing is a calling, and Usyk remains firmly entrenched in its world. Regardless of whom he chooses to clash with next, fans know this much: watching Usyk in action is an unmissable experience.
