Getty Images/Global Images Ukraine. Oleksandr Usyk
The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has officially demanded that Oleksandr Usyk defend his title. The Ukrainian boxer must agree within 30 days to hold a fight with the WBO interim heavyweight champion, New Zealander Joseph Parker.
Usyk would prefer to fight IBF title holder Daniel Dubois. The parties are negotiating and the fight could take place in late summer or early fall.
If Usyk refuses to fight Parker, he will be forced to give up the WBO title. Fans reacted to the WBO decision on social media. Some want to see Usyk fight Parker, while others want a rematch with Dubois.
Gritty From Da Underground: I'd rather see Usyk vs. Dubois rematch, but Parker deserves a chance. I think Usyk is going to give it to him.
Boxing: If this fight happens, it will be a very competitive and exciting matchup. Personally, I am leaning towards Usyk due to his skill and adaptability, but Parker’s experience and power could make this a very close fight. Ultimately, this is a fight that fans of the sport will be looking forward to.
David Gallop-Hughes: We'll see Usyk fight Dubois. I think Usyk will handle Parker and then hopefully his last fight will be Dubois.
Usyk will probably beat both of them, but once he retires, it leaves a huge void. And to me, Parker probably fills that void for a few years until new blood comes in.
Stephen Sorby: Usyk vs Dubois should take place instead of Usyk vs Parker because it is the undisputed heavyweight title.
Ben U: Please make Parker fight Usyk. Parker deserves his chance and this is the fight the fans want to see.
Joe Selkirk New: I'd rather see Usyk and Parker fight than see Dubois fight again.
T: The right decision. Parker can't fight anyone other than Usyk or Dubois. He deserves it, Dubois can now wait his turn after pulling out so late.
Steve 4132: Parker deserves the fight. The only appeal of fighting Dubois is a unification (again), which won't happen if the WBO strips Usyk of the title anyway. Unless they take the IBF approach; he'll be stripped the next day, and then the promoters can call it a unification fight with the winner facing Parker.
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