Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is said to be taking his deserved time in determining his next course of action, but with the WBO ordering him to make a mandatory title defense against Joseph Parker he’ll have to make at least some decisions sooner than later.
Sky Sports reports that Usyk has requested an extension to the WBO’s 30-day deadline to reach a deal to face Parker next considering he’s dealing with an injury. That extension has yet to be granted by the governing body, although
still be considered, meaning the 30 days from July 24 when the order was given is now just about up.
“Pertaining to the request submitted by Team Usyk, such is under consideration by the Championship Committee,” said Gustavo Olivieri of the WBO.
If no extension is granted it’s likely this fight will be immediately ordered to purse bid, but that of course does not make it more likely that this fight will actually take place. Usyk could very well just opt to vacate his WBO title instead and take his time to seek out another fight after he’s had more time to recover, and his team has made it clear that Usyk won’t be rushed or forced into facing anybody before he’s ready.
