Oleksandr Usyk could be stripped of a world title, with the icon given thirty days to agree to face a talented boxer

Oleksandr Usyk ordered to fight Joseph Parker next

Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered to defend his WBO Championship against mandatory contender Joseph Parker.

The New Zealander has earned his opportunity, having defeated Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang and Martin Bakole.

The WBO has released the following statement: “Gentlemen: Please be advised that the WBO World Championship Committee is hereby ordering the commencement of negotiations between the subject matter fighters to discharge the mandatory title defence obligation.

“By virtue of this order, the parties have thirty days upon issuance of this letter to reach terms. Failure to do so will result in this committee ordering purse bid proceedings in accordance with WBO regulations of World Championship Contests.

“The minimum bid in the Heavyweight division is one-million dollars ($1,000,000.00). Any of the parties herein may request purse bid proceedings at any time during negotiation stages.

“Lastly, the WBO reserves its right to issue any and all further rulings deemed necessary, helpful and convenient to accomplish the purposes, policies, and intent of the WBO rules, including but not limited to serving those interests that best serve boxing, and the WBO Heavyweight Division.

“Do not hesitate to contact the WBO headquarters if you have any questions or concerns.”

If Usyk chooses not to face Parker, he will either have to vacate the belt or be stripped.

Icon insists Daniel Dubois could’ve gotten up against Oleksandr Usyk

While Usyk is gearing up for his next title defense, there’s a long way back for Dubois.

In the aftermath of the contest, the Brit was accused of ‘quitting’ due to his failure to beat the ten-count.

Upon analyzing the contest, an icon said ‘The real Dubois doesn’t want to fight‘.