Oleksandr Usyk and Daniel Dubois are set to face off again, but the winner already knows their next opponent. The WBO has ruled that Joseph Parker will get his shot at the heavyweight title after their rematch.
WBO President Gustavo Olivieri made the decision after Usyk and Dubois' teams presented their arguments. He's trying to keep everyone happy by letting the unification bout happen while also giving Parker his promised title shot.
Usyk and Dubois first fought in August 2023. The Ukrainian won by stoppage in the 9th round, but there was a bit of controversy over a low blow. Since then, Usyk has beaten Tyson Fury to become the undisputed champ, while Dubois picked up the IBF belt that Usyk had to give up.
Parker's been busy too. He was supposed to fight Dubois in February, but that fell through when Dubois got sick. Instead, he knocked out Martin Bakole in just two rounds. He's also beaten Zhilei Zhang and Deontay Wilder on points, making a strong case for his title shot.
Olivieri explained why he's letting the unification bout happen first:
"Having carefully considered the arguments presented by all relevant parties regarding the WBO Mandatory, it's the WBO's position that the best interests of boxing and most importantly, the fighters themselves are best served by allowing the unification bout to proceed prior to discharging the mandatory obligation."
The heavyweight division's trying to crown an undisputed champ, and this decision helps that along while still giving Parker his chance.
Usyk and Dubois will meet again on July 19 in London. The winner will have to face Parker next, setting up another big fight in the heavyweight division.
