Usyk May Forfeit WBO Title if He Avoids Parker Bout

Oleksandr Usyk has received an order from the World Boxing Organisation to defend his WBO heavyweight title against Joseph Parker or potentially relinquish the belt, according to recent reports.

Usyk achieved a knockout victory over Daniel Dubois in the fifth round at Wembley Stadium on Saturday. This win marked his second time becoming the heavyweight undisputed champion.

The Ukrainian fighter has made history as the first boxer to secure undisputed champion status on three separate occasions, previously at cruiserweight (2018) and heavyweight (2024).

The WBO has formally instructed Usyk to defend his title against Parker, communicating this directive in a letter addressed to both boxers.

The letter stated: “Please be advised that the WBO World Championship Committee hereby orders the start of negotiations between the concerned fighters to fulfill the mandatory title defense obligation.”

It further outlined: “As per this order, the parties are granted thirty (30) days from the date of this letter to reach an agreement. Failure to comply will result in the committee ordering purse bid proceedings in accordance with WBO regulations for World Championship Contests.”

The minimum bid for the Heavyweight division is set at $1,000,000.00. Any party involved may request purse bid proceedings at any point during the negotiation phase.

The WBO retains the right to make additional rulings to ensure the rules are followed, prioritizing the best interests of boxing and the WBO Heavyweight Division. Questions can be directed to the WBO headquarters.

Consequently, should Oleksandr Usyk decline to face Parker, he risks forfeiting his WBO belt, either voluntarily or through stripping.