Following Usyk’s knockout of Daniel Dubois last weekend and a trilogy clash with Tyson Fury reportedly being considered for later in 2025, questions have arisen about the next move concerning his WBO obligation.

WBO to meet over Oleksandr Usyk
Speaking exclusively to World Boxing News, WBO President Gustavo Olivieri confirmed the governing body will now assess the situation.

“The Committee will convene this week to determine the next course of action pertaining to the Mandatory title defense obligation in the heavyweight division,” Olivieri told WBN.

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“As to Usyk’s performance last Saturday, he is simply an extraordinary generational talent. But most importantly, he is an exemplary human being.

“Being that the WBO was his first world sanctioning body, it is an honor to have Usyk as our champion inside and outside the ring.”

Who is the WBO heavyweight mandatory challenger?
With Joseph Parker now firmly installed as WBO interim heavyweight champion following his devastating knockout win over Martin Bakole in February 2025, the New Zealander is next in line to challenge Usyk for the full title.

Parker’s rise back into contention comes at the perfect time, with the WBO expected to enforce his mandatory status.

Promoter Frank Warren, speaking after Usyk defeated Dubois for the second time at Wembley Stadium on July 19, declared that Parker had “earned his shot” and told WBO, “it’s time” to make the order.

The WBO will make its ruling at this week’s Championship Committee meeting, where the governing body will rule on the mandatory defense timeline.

Usyk, 37, remains the two-time undisputed champion of the four-belt era, but with ongoing talk of a third Fury fight, Parker’s clear waters are muddier.

The WBO could face pressure to balance its legacy with its obligations. Whether the WBO grants an exception or orders the Parker fight is the question.

WBO officials will provide a formal response on the matter by early next week.

Parker entered the ring when Usyk took out Dubois in devastating fashion. However, YouTuber Jake Paul overshadowed his appearance and stopped him from making his point.

It has to be Usyk vs Parker next or the WBO must give the number one heavyweight contender the belt outright. It’s the only decision to make.