Oleksandr Usyk Shocks Fans: Ignores WBO Order, Chooses Fierce Rival Instead?

The heavyweight division is once again filled with uncertainty as Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning champion, finds himself at a crucial crossroads. With multiple belts in his possession and several challengers eager to take him on, the Ukrainian fighter must now make a career-defining decision.

In December, Usyk once again proved his dominance by defeating Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated rematch. This victory allowed him to retain his WBC, WBA, and WBO titles, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest heavyweights of his era. However, in the aftermath of that fight, Usyk vacated the IBF title, which now belongs to Daniel Dubois.

This has led to speculation about Usyk’s next opponent, with many expecting a showdown between the Ukrainian and the new IBF champion, Daniel Dubois, in a battle that would crown the undisputed heavyweight king once again.

Usyk vs Dubois: A Battle for True Supremacy

Despite being ordered by the WBO to defend his belt against Joseph Parker, Usyk and his team have made it clear that their priority is to fight Daniel Dubois next.

Sergey Lapin, a key member of Team Usyk, confirmed this in a statement to boxing media:

Oleksandr Usyk wants to make his next fight against Daniel Dubois. Dubois is our priority because he has the belt.

This statement leaves little doubt about Usyk’s intentions. The Ukrainian fighter is not merely interested in defending his current titles but in regaining the undisputed championship. A fight against Dubois would allow him to reclaim what he lost and erase any doubts about his place at the top of the heavyweight division.

The Controversial Past Between Usyk and Dubois

A potential rematch between Usyk and Dubois would carry extra intrigue due to their previous fight. The two first faced each other in August 2023, with Usyk winning via a ninth-round stoppage. However, that fight was not without controversy.

In the fifth round, Dubois landed a heavy body shot that sent Usyk to the canvas. The British fighter and his team believed the punch was perfectly legal, but the referee ruled it a low blow and gave Usyk time to recover.

The decision sparked debate among fans and analysts. Some argued that Usyk was given unfair protection, while others supported the referee’s ruling. Regardless of which side one takes, the controversy has lingered, and Dubois has been vocal about his belief that he deserved a different outcome.

This is why a rematch between these two fighters would not just be another heavyweight clash. It would be a fight to settle unfinished business. Usyk would look to prove that his first victory over Dubois was no fluke, while Dubois would aim to correct what he sees as a major injustice.

Joseph Parker: The Mandatory Challenger Waiting in the Wings

While Usyk and Dubois are at the center of attention, there is another contender who could disrupt those plans. Joseph Parker, the former WBO champion, has been on an impressive run and has now positioned himself as the mandatory challenger for Usyk’s WBO title.

Parker recently defeated Martin Bakole, a victory that solidified his place at the top of the rankings. He was originally scheduled to face Dubois earlier this year, but after Dubois withdrew due to illness, he had to adjust his plans. Now, Parker is eager to finally get his shot at Usyk and the world title.

However, with Usyk prioritizing Dubois, it remains uncertain whether Parker will get his chance.

Team Parker’s Stand: We Will Not Be Ignored

Despite Usyk’s preference for a fight with Dubois, Parker’s team has been vocal about their belief that he deserves the next shot.

We will do everything in our power to make the fight happen.

This statement makes it clear that Parker’s team will push for their fighter’s rights. They argue that as the mandatory challenger, Parker should be next in line, regardless of Usyk’s plans.

The question now is whether the WBO will enforce its order or allow Usyk to pursue his preferred option.

Where Will Usyk Fight Next? Saudi Arabia or London?

Another major factor in the discussion is the location of Usyk’s next fight.

The Middle East has become a major hub for boxing in recent years, with Saudi Arabia hosting some of the biggest fights in the sport. Given the financial incentives and global attention, it is highly likely that a potential Usykvs. Dubois fight could take place in Riyadh.

However, London remains a strong possibility. British fans have long supported Usyk, and a fight against Dubois in the UK would generate massive interest. The O2 Arena or Wembley Stadium could be potential venues if the fight is booked for London.

Whether it happens in Saudi Arabia or London, there is no doubt that Usyk’s next fight will be one of the biggest events in boxing this year.

The Final Decision: What Will Usyk Do?

With multiple options in front of him, Usyk’s next move will have a major impact on the heavyweight division.

His choices are clear:

• Fight Daniel Dubois in a rematch for the undisputed championship

• Defend his WBO title against mandatory challenger Joseph Parker

As of now, Usyk and his team have made it clear that their focus is on Dubois. However, boxing politics can be unpredictable, and until an official announcement is made, anything can happen.

One thing is certain—Usyk’s next fight will shape the future of the heavyweight division. Fans around the world are eagerly waiting to see who he steps into the ring with next.