Joseph Parker’s manager, David Higgins, says no contact has been made by WBO heavyweight champion Oleksandr utility to start negotiating the WBO-ordered fight.
No USYK -CONTACT MADE
It is doubtful whether USyk (24-0, 15 CO’s) will choose to defend his WBO title against Parker. The chances of the fight happening, with the report that Turki Alalshikh is not interested in supporting the fight. Without his financing, the chances of usyk agreed to face Parker are slim. It would be a bizarre move if he chose to fight against him because it didn’t pay.
Parker (36-3, 24 COs) earned the mandatory place to challenge USYC by stopping Martin Bakole in the second round in February. Last month, the WBO Oleksandr ordered to start talking to Parker on July 24, giving them 30 days to negotiate an agreement.
“The last time I talked to Frank Warren there was no involvement. You do not rule anything in or out, but I think USKyk would have done in a discussion or negotiation if he wants to retain and defend his undisputed heavyweight world titles, ‘David Higgins said Sky Sports News.
USYK can be stripped
Parker and Higgins should look to the bright side. USYK is likely to be stripped soon if he prefers not to fight against Parker. Then the WBO is likely to recommend Parker and the next highest selected contender to fight for the vacant belt. It would be one of these three:
- Moses will bite
- Philip Hrgovic
- Zhilei Zhang
It is not ideal for Parker to have one of the guys to fight for the WBO belt, but he will at least get a shot. After all, is the title not interested in? If it’s just the money, he has to go in a different direction, because here are no opportunities for him.
Respect merit-based box
“I am hopeful that the merit-based system is respected and that the man who really earned a shot on a global heavyweight title allowed the title because it was earned in the difficult way, the old school road, with consecutive victories over monumental opposition,” says Higgins.
Last updated on 08/02/2025
