Frank Warren revealed that Oleksandr Usyk won't likely return to boxing action before the end of the year. The heavyweight champion with a perfect 24-0 record (15 KOs) requested a medical exemption from the WBO despite being ordered to negotiate a fight with Joseph Parker.
"Usyk asked for time out from the World Boxing Organization due to injury, provided evidence, and that's where things stand now. Will he fight before the end of the year? I very much doubt it," - Warren told Sky Sports.
Frank Warren, who promotes Joseph Parker (36-3, 23 KOs) through Queensberry Promotions, mentioned that his fighter is now focusing on an October bout instead. Any potential showdown with Usyk appears to be pushed back until 2026.
Interestingly, the WBO recently demanded Usyk provide an updated medical report after videos emerged showing the Ukrainian champion dancing on stage with singer Ivo Bobul and participating in a charity football match with other Ukrainian celebrities.
The situation developed after July 24, when the WBO ordered Usyk to begin negotiations with Parker. The Ukrainian responded by requesting a 90-day pause, citing injury concerns. Meanwhile, New Zealand's Parker has reportedly selected his next opponent for the October fight.
In another twist, promoter Oleksandr Krasuk has urged the heavyweight champion to immediately retire from boxing. Usyk's last appearance in the ring came on July 19, when he brutally knocked out Daniel Dubois (22-3, 21 KOs) in the fifth round.
Usyk's team director Serhii Lapin has dodged questions about retirement rumors, refusing to confirm or deny whether the boxer plans to hang up his gloves. Is this medical exemption truly about recovery, or is the undefeated champion contemplating the end of his remarkable career?
