Tyson Fury Delivers Honest Verdict On Oleksandr Usyk Fighting Joseph Parker Next

Usyk became undisputed heavyweight champion when he first beat Fury last May. He dropped the IBF belt to honour the rematch clause, beating the Brit again in December.

Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois was elevated to full IBF Champion and knocked out Anthony Joshua inside five rounds as his first defence. He was then set to put his belt on the line against Parker in February but pulled out just days before due to illness. The New Zealander stopped late replacement Martin Bakole in two rounds, building on wins against Deontay Wilder and Zhilei Zhang.

Most fans feel Parker is well deserving of a shot having bested three of the division’s most dangerous punchers, however Dubois’ team made it clear that they would not be looking to reschedule the voluntary defence and instead targeted an undisputed showdown with Usyk.

Those plans were made much more complicated by the WBO’s mandatory order for Interim champ Parker to face Usyk next. The pair have 30 days to negotiate and, should they fail to strike a deal, will go to purse bids.

Whilst Dubois will not be happy about missing out on a historic four-belt fight – that is if he can’t strike a deal for Parker to step aside – Fury sides with the fans in that Parker deserves his shot. Speaking of Instagram, he said, “about time.”

“About time as well. Give Joseph Parker his shot!”

More is expected in the coming weeks as to how the champions navigate their next moves.

Fury, like every man before him, could not piece together the puzzle Usyk presents. He announced his retirement following the second loss, closing the door on a mega fight with another Usyk victim in Anthony Joshua.