Oleksandr Usyk’s brief tenure as the undisputed world heavyweight champion is already under threat, with the possibility of losing more titles looming on the horizon. Despite a stunning victory over Tyson Fury in May that unified the WBC, WBA, IBF, and WBO belts, Usyk’s reign encountered an immediate setback when he relinquished the IBF title just a month later.
Usyk’s victory over Fury was historic, marking him as the undisputed king of the heavyweight division. However, contractual obligations for a rematch with Fury in December prevented Usyk from making the mandatory defense of the IBF belt. Consequently, Daniel Dubois, the IBF Interim belt-holder, was promoted to full champion in June. Usyk confirmed his decision to relinquish the IBF title through a video on social media, paving the way for Anthony Joshua to challenge Dubois for the IBF belt at Wembley on September 21.
The pressing question now is whether Usyk’s remaining titles are also in danger. Former heavyweight champion Joseph Parker, who secured the WBO Interim heavyweight title in March after defeating Zhilei Zhang, is next in line for a mandatory shot at the WBO championship. Parker’s promoter, David Higgins, affirmed this position in an April interview with Sky Sports, emphasizing that every boxer should aspire to a world title shot.
With the IBF title already relinquished, Usyk faces mounting pressure from other mandatory contenders. His contracted rematch with Fury in December adds to the complexity, as it could further hinder his ability to defend the remaining belts.
Usyk’s recent triumphs and rapid rise to unification have made him a celebrated figure in the boxing world, yet the demands of maintaining multiple titles against mandatory defenses present significant challenges. The boxing community eagerly watches to see how Usyk navigates this precarious situation, balancing the rematch with Fury and the obligations to defend his other titles.
In this dynamic and ever-changing landscape, Usyk’s future as a multi-title holder remains uncertain. Will he be able to retain his WBC, WBA, and WBO belts, or will other rising stars like Joseph Parker capitalize on the opportunity to challenge his supremacy? The upcoming months will be crucial in determining the fate of Usyk’s reign and the shifting hierarchy within the heavyweight division.
Boxing enthusiasts and sports fans alike can catch the unfolding drama live, with Joshua’s clash against Dubois on Sky Sports Box Office being one of the highlights. As the anticipation builds, all eyes are on Usyk to see if he can maintain his hard-earned titles or if his reign will face further disruption.
