Oleksandr Usyk’s Title Obligations
Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning heavyweight champion who holds the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles, is currently bound by a series of title obligations, which significantly restrict his ability to schedule potential blockbuster fights. Following his recent commanding victory over Daniel Dubois, speculation has mounted regarding Usyk’s next opponents, including potential mega-fights with Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, or Moses Itauma. However, Usyk’s immediate future is dictated by mandatory challengers, starting with Joseph Parker, who has been confirmed by the WBO as next in line for a title shot.
Upcoming Challenges
After facing Parker, the situation will depend on the WBC’s decisions regarding Usyk’s mandatory challenger, Agit Kabayel, who has patiently waited for his opportunity after impressively navigating his way up the ranks. The 31-year-old German fighter emphasizes his readiness and hunger for a high-stakes bout with Usyk, expressing his determination to remain active in the ring to maintain his edge.
“I’m the most dangerous challenge for him because I’m a young, hungry man who has come from nothing. I come from normal, simple circumstances, and my hunger hasn’t yet been satisfied,” Kabayel stated in an interview, affirming his intention to fight again this year in order to keep his momentum going.
In addition to Parker and Kabayel, the WBA is expected to enforce its mandatory requirements shortly after Kabayel, with Kubrat Pulev positioned as a possible challenger, despite his advanced age of 44. Pulev is also tied up with obligations to Michael Hunter within another sanctioning body, complicating Usyk’s path further.
Future Implications
In terms of upcoming fights, this leaves Usyk with a narrow window for a potential superfight, likely only after settling bouts with Parker and Kabayel. This situation raises questions around Usyk’s timeline, especially regarding a much-anticipated trilogy match against Fury or a long-awaited faceoff with Wilder. If Usyk’s schedule is congested with mandated title defenses, the prospect of these significant fights could be pushed well into 2026, possibly blocking Usyk’s career path as these bouts depend on mutual availability.
Should Usyk maintain his commitment to the titles, he may have to relinquish certain belts to pursue larger names without the constraints of mandatory challenges. Should the fight with Parker not materialize, Usyk could find himself without an immediate clear opponent as Kabayel’s involvement also hangs in the balance. If Usyk ultimately drops a title, this risks restructuring the heavyweight division dynamics by sidelining some contenders, like Wilder, who remains on the hunt for another notable fight.
Usyk’s Mandatory Schedule
Looking ahead, it appears Usyk’s timeline may be congested enough to impact his participation in major heavyweight encounters. If he intends to juggle all obligations effectively, it could be some time before boxing fans see him face off against big names once considered dream matchups.
- Spring 2026: Joseph Parker (WBO mandatory)
- Fall 2026: Deontay Wilder (voluntary after possible WBC relinquishment)
- Spring 2027: Agit Kabayel (WBC)
- Fall 2027: Kubrat Pulev (WBA)
About the Author
Phil Jay, a seasoned boxing journalist, boasts over 15 years covering the sport worldwide and has served as Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010. Jay has conducted interviews with numerous world champions and brings a wealth of experience to his reporting.
