‘Strip Him’ – Fans React to Usyk Playing Soccer After Can’t Fight Parker

Oleksandr Usyk’s Injury Raises Questions Among Fans

Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion, has been at the center of a heated debate among boxing fans following new footage of him participating in a charity soccer match. The Ukrainian star, who recently claimed a back injury would sideline him for the rest of the year, has faced backlash online from supporters who feel he is undermining his credibility.

Expected to return in 2026 after his victory over Daniel Dubois, Usyk is under orders from the WBO to defend his belts against a mandatory challenger. Most speculation pointed toward a clash with Joseph Parker, the current interim champion, or possibly Fabio Wardley, depending on the outcome of Parker’s upcoming fight.

However, seeing Usyk moving freely in a soccer match has left fans frustrated, with many demanding that the champion be stripped of his titles.

Fans Rip Usyk for Soccer Match Appearance

When the footage surfaced on social media, showing Oleksandr Usyk running on the field and even replacing football legend Henrik Larsson in the charity game, criticism poured in almost instantly.

One fan wrote bluntly: “Strip him of the belts right now.” Another questioned the timing of his appearance, posting: “Is this recent? I thought he was injured.”

Others accused Usyk of deliberately avoiding his mandatory fight against Joseph Parker. One commenter said: “Thought he was injured n can’t fight Parker, he’s ducking him.”

The situation escalated further when fans began tagging the World Boxing Organization and its president, calling for immediate action. “@WorldBoxingOrg @OlivieriLaw HW champion of the world faking injury. Should be stripped of the title, and Parker should be fighting for the championship,” one user wrote.

This growing discontent has placed pressure on the WBO, as critics argue that allowing Usyk to hold on to his belts while playing soccer contradicts his medical claims.

Backlash Following Previous Criticism

This is not the first time Oleksandr Usyk has faced scrutiny for his activities outside the ring during an injury layoff. Just weeks ago, he drew criticism after footage showed him dancing and moving energetically despite his supposed back problem.

For many fans, the soccer match was the final straw. A commenter summed it up: “This is not helping when it comes to the WBO asking about Usyk’s health.”

The backlash is fueled by the frustration of boxing fans who want to see the heavyweight titles defended regularly. With contenders like Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley eager for their shot, Usyk’s participation in physically demanding activities outside the ring has only intensified the calls for him to be stripped.

Usyk’s Legacy and Motivation Questioned

While Oleksandr Usyk remains one of the most technically gifted fighters of his generation, even respected voices within boxing have started questioning his current motivations.

Eddie Hearn, the Matchroom Boxing promoter, recently suggested that Usyk needs to reassess his goals. According to Hearn, the Ukrainian must decide whether he still has the drive to defend his titles against dangerous contenders like Parker or Wardley.

Hearn’s comments reflect a wider concern: that Usyk, having already achieved undisputed status at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, may be lacking the hunger that once fueled his dominance. His back injury—real or exaggerated—has only intensified speculation about how much longer he plans to compete at the elite level.

Joseph Parker’s Position in the Title Picture

At the heart of the controversy is Joseph Parker, who many fans believe should be fighting for the undisputed heavyweight championship right now. Parker, fresh off an impressive run of victories over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole, has built one of the strongest résumés in the division.

Currently holding the interim WBO title, Parker was initially expected to challenge Usyk next. But with Usyk sidelined, Parker instead accepted a fight with Fabio Wardley on October 25 at the O2 Arena.

Fans frustrated by Usyk’s injury claims argue that Parker should already be elevated to full champion. The footage of Usyk playing soccer has only amplified those calls, as supporters insist Parker has earned the right to be recognized as the legitimate titleholder.

Fabio Wardley and Other Contenders Waiting

While Joseph Parker has been the most vocal contender for Usyk’s belts, he is not the only heavyweight impacted by the situation. Fabio Wardley, who will face Parker in London, has also been mentioned as a possible future opponent for Usyk.

Wardley’s incredible rise from white-collar boxing to professional contender has made him a fan favorite. His knockout victory over Justis Huni earlier this year showed he carries fight-ending power, making him a dangerous option for anyone, including Usyk.

If Usyk continues to delay his return, fighters like Wardley and others in the IBF and WBO rankings will demand clarity about when and how the belts will be defended.

Should Usyk Be Stripped? The Debate

The central question emerging from this controversy is whether Oleksandr Usyk should be stripped of his titles. Boxing fans are divided:

• The case for stripping him: Usyk’s participation in physical activities like soccer undermines his injury claim. With mandatory challengers waiting, the belts should be passed on to active fighters who are ready to compete.

• The case for keeping him champion: Usyk remains unbeaten at heavyweight and has proven himself repeatedly against top opponents. A temporary injury should not erase his status as the best in the division.

Ultimately, the decision rests with the WBO, which must balance fairness to contenders with respect for a champion who has already achieved greatness.

The Risk of Fan Backlash

Regardless of the official outcome, one thing is clear: Oleksandr Usyk’s reputation with fans has taken a hit. Once admired as a fearless competitor who moved up from cruiserweight to dethrone the best heavyweights, he now faces accusations of dodging fights and exploiting his status.

In a sport where fan perception plays a huge role, this backlash could harm his legacy if not addressed. For Usyk, the solution may be simple: return to the ring sooner rather than later, and prove his injury is behind him.

What Happens Next?

As of now, Usyk is expected to return in 2026, with the WBO giving him additional time to recover and negotiate his mandatory defense. Meanwhile, Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley will go ahead in October, with the winner potentially next in line.

If Usyk does not commit to a clear timeline, however, the WBO may be forced to make a tough call. Stripping him would clear the path for Parker or Wardley to become the new full champion, while Usyk would have to fight his way back into contention.

Final Thoughts

The controversy surrounding Oleksandr Usyk playing soccer while sidelined with injury highlights the tension between champions, governing bodies, and fans in modern boxing. Supporters are frustrated by delays, hungry contenders want their shot, and promoters are calling for clarity.

While Usyk’s talent and accomplishments are undeniable, his actions outside the ring are putting him at odds with the very fans who once celebrated his rise. Whether or not he keeps his belts, the Ukrainian will need to address these criticisms head-on by returning to the ring and defending his titles.

Until then, the debate will rage on: should the undisputed heavyweight king be allowed to hold onto his throne, or is it time to strip him and let Joseph Parker and others fight for the crown?