The Future of Oleksandr Usyk
The future of Oleksandr Usyk as the undisputed heavyweight boxing champion remains uncertain as he faces mounting mandatory obligations from multiple sanctioning bodies. With the WBA, WBC, and WBO keen on enforcing their contenders, Usyk currently has a challenging schedule ahead.
Mandatory Obligations and Challenges
Among these, the WBO has the most immediate claims, designating Joseph Parker as its top contender and interim champion. In a strategic move, Usyk’s team has formally requested a delay for this bout, and the WBO’s President, Gustavo Olivieri, has indicated that a decision on this extension will arrive this week. Should the WBO approve the request, Usyk would keep his title, pushing Parker’s challenge further down the line.
In a twist, this situation could also open the door for rising star Moses Itauma to enter the picture for Usyk’s next fight. Despite ongoing rumors that the WBO might strip Usyk of his title, the organization has reassured that such a situation is not likely at this time.
WBA and WBC Complications
Turning to the WBA, the scenario is similarly convoluted. Kubrat Pulev holds the regular championship, Fabio Wardley has the interim title, and Michael Hunter is recognized as the ‘gold’ champion. Should the WBO grant Usyk’s request for an extension, the WBA is expected to reflect this decision, potentially allowing Usyk to maintain all his belts. However, due to previous complications involving Tyson Fury and Dubois’ fights, Pulev, Wardley, and Agit Kabayel are still waiting for their opportunities, with Pulev and Hunter currently tangled in a dispute regarding forthcoming matchups.
The WBC arena remains equally tumultuous, with Kabayel awaiting a ruling on his mandatory status, which is contingent on the WBA’s indecision. WBC President Gilberto Mendoza has yet to resolve this issue, further prolonging the uncertainty surrounding Usyk’s title defenses.
IBF Status and Usyk’s Intentions
Meanwhile, the IBF’s status is clouded by a vacant number one contender position. Derek Chisora currently stands at second, yet with no leading fighter in place, Usyk faces no immediate threat from this organization.
As the situation unfolds, Usyk’s intention to retain his undisputed title suggests he is not considering retirement at this juncture. Nonetheless, in the wake of the WBO’s impending decision, challengers such as Parker, Pulev, Wardley, Kabayel, and Chisora find themselves in a holding pattern.
