Undefeated Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has reportedly suffered an injury that is now impacting the timeline for his next mandatory title defense. According to recent reports, Usyk has requested an extension in negotiations for a potential bout with New Zealand’s Joseph Parker, citing the lingering effects of an injury sustained in his fight against Daniel Dubois.

Usyk, who holds the WBA, WBO, IBF, and IBO heavyweight titles, was last seen in action during his dramatic win over Dubois—a fight that generated significant controversy due to a disputed low blow that briefly halted the bout. Despite coming out victorious, it appears that Usyk did not walk away unscathed. Details on the exact nature of his injury remain unclear, but it is significant enough for the champion to delay talks for his next defense.

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The WBO has ordered Usyk to begin negotiations with Joseph Parker for a mandatory title defense, originally set to move forward on July 24th. However, with Usyk’s medical concerns now on the table, the timeline may shift, delaying what would be one of the most intriguing matchups in the heavyweight division.

This development throws a temporary wrench into the heavyweight landscape, especially with undisputed ambitions still floating around following Usyk’s historic win over Tyson Fury earlier this year. Fans were eager to see Usyk return to action quickly, but health remains the top priority.

For now, the boxing world will have to wait as Usyk recovers and his team navigates negotiations with Parker and the WBO. Whether the fight gets rescheduled or plans change entirely will depend on how serious the injury proves to be in the coming weeks.

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