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Frank Warren Reveals Latest on Oleksandr Usyk vs Joseph Parker

Mark Robinson Matchroom Boxing

Frank Warren Reveals Latest on Oleksandr Usyk vs Joseph Parker

Published on August 14, 2025

On July 19, Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) reaffirmed his dominance in the heavyweight division by stopping Daniel Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs) in the fifth round. The victory made Usyk an undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time. Attention quickly turned to his next opponent, with many calling for WBO mandatory Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) to get his shot. Frank Warren has now spoken to Sky Sports to provide the latest on a potential Usyk vs Parker showdown.

Oleksandr Usyk vs Joseph Parker Potential Fight Update

Frank Warren Provides Latest on Potential Heavyweight Showdown

Usyk was recently ordered by the WBO to face mandatory challenger Parker after becoming the undisputed champion. Queensbury promoter Frank Warren has now revealed the latest to Sky Sports: “He (Usyk) put a letter in yesterday stating that he’s asked him for an extension period, because he’s injured, before being ordered to do anything,” Warren told Sky Sports News.

“Whatever happens the fact of life is Joseph Parker will either fight as champion if Usyk vacates or he will fight Usyk for the title.

“If Moses or Dillian win, they’re in the No 1 spot and if the fight with Usyk and Parker doesn’t happen then Joe (Parker) will have to fight the official number one contender,” added Warren.

“His camp have written asking for a period of time before he has to defend the title,” Warren continued.

Heavyweight Picture

“We’ll see what happens and the WBO will put a statement out on this today or tomorrow, I’ve been informally told what the position is. The most important thing is to focus on Saturday, it’s a very important fight.”

Usyk’s request for an extension on entering Parker fight negotiations leaves the heavyweight title picture uncertain. With Parker potentially facing the winner of Moses Itauma (12-0, 10 KOs) vs Dillian Whyte (31-3, 21 KOs), there’s added intrigue for the August 16 main event. Even if Usyk’s request is denied, Parker looks set for a world title shot, but will it be for undisputed glory?

Ricky Carroll

Freelance Writer and Digital Marketer, spending most of his time waiting for Andy Cruz to win a world title. Also watches YouTube videos of Lennox Lewis fights on a daily basis.