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WBO mandates Usyk to face Parker
Ukrainian boxer Oleksandr Usyk, 38, has been directed by the WBO to defend his title against Joseph Parker following talks of a rematch with Daniel Dubois.
30-day agreement window
Usyk and Parker, 33, now have 30 days to come to an agreement for the mandatory bout, or else the WBO will initiate purse bid proceedings.
Dubois rematch on hold
The potential rematch between Usyk and Dubois, 27, is currently on hold as Usyk focuses on negotiations with Parker, the WBO's mandated opponent.
Controversy and drama
The decision comes after Usyk defeated Dubois in a bout marred by controversy over a low-blow incident, leading to unresolved disputes between the two camps.
Usyk's boxing journey
Following his victory over Dubois, Usyk went on to secure multiple heavyweight titles and defeat Tyson Fury in a rematch, relinquishing the IBF title in the process.
