WBO Orders Oleksandr Usyk-Joseph Parker Bout

By: Sean Crose

The World Boxing Organization has ordered that it’s heavyweight titlist Oleksandr Usyk defend his belt against former world WBO titlist Joseph Parker. Usyk, who defeated Tyson Fury for the second time in a row last year, will now either face Parker or be stripped of his WBO crown. Although the Ukrainian multi titlist also holds the WBC and WBA belts, there’s little doubt Usyk would prefer the WBO belt remain where it is. “The parties have 30 days to reach terms,” the order reads. “Failure to do so will result in this Committee ordering purse bid proceedings in accordance with WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests.”

Without doubt, Usyk is the premier heavyweight in the sport. Not only has be beaten Fury twice in a row, he’s also defeated Anthony Joshua twice in a row, as well. Indeed, no one is viewed as a serious threat to the man’s reign at the moment. Daniel Dubois holds the IBF heavyweight belt, however, which is something that former undisputed champion Usyk would no doubt love to have back in his possession. Sure enough, Dubois arguably dropped Usyk with a body shot when they met a few years back. With that being said, the punch was ruled as a low blow and Usyk went on to handily stop the Englishman before the final bell. Still, a rematch between the two might be interesting.

Yet a bout against Parker might prove to be interesting, as well. While Parker has lost a couple of fights, he’s been on a hot streak as of late. Furthermore, his awkward style just might present Usyk with some challenges. Whatever one could say about a Usyk-Parker fight, it would be difficult to argue it’s not at least a little bit intriguing. Styles make fights after all.

Of course, it’s pretty much up to Usyk who he decides to fight next. He’s been undisputed, so it isn’t like he hasn’t already reached the pinnacle of the sport. While the WBO and IBF belts are no doubt wonderful things to have, it’s worth wondering whether or not Usyk feels a deep abiding need to have them in his possession once again. He’s already seen as one of the all time great heavies. How many more accolades does the man need? Fighters fight, however, and Usyk is still very much in the fight game. No matter who he chooses to battle from now on, the guy is must see.