Oleksandr Usyk's team has asked the WBO for more time before they start talks with Joseph Parker. They want Usyk to rest after a busy 16 months in the ring.
Usyk's been a lot more active lately. From 2019 to 2023, he only fought once a year. But in the last 23 months, he's had four fights. That's the most he's fought since 2018. This change came after he teamed up with Turki Alalshikh and the Riyadh Season project.
Serge Lapin, who works for Usyk's team, explained why they want more time:
"Usyk's been through a lot. You can't see all his injuries, but they're there from all the hard training and tough fights. He's earned some time off to be with his family. We think he should decide what's next without any pressure."
Joseph Parker, who's the WBO interim champion, really wants to fight Usyk. He's beaten Zhilei Zhang and Martin Bakole to become the top challenger. Parker's even made funny videos online to get Usyk's attention.
The WBO might give Usyk more time, but they won't let him wait 90 days. They've said if Usyk wants to keep his titles, he'll need to fight Parker when they set a new deadline. If he doesn't, he could lose his status as undisputed champion.
Usyk's had a great year. In May 2024, he beat Tyson Fury in a split decision and became the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the 21st century. Then in December, he beat Fury again, this time by unanimous decision.
At 38, Usyk's career has been amazing. He's one of the best boxers of our time. Right now, he's taking a break to think about what's next. Usyk's always been a champion in and out of the ring. He's mature and in control.
Everyone in boxing is waiting to see what Usyk will do next. But the champion's made it clear: he won't be rushed.
