Oleksandr Usyk faces being stripped of world title after knocking Daniel Dubois out
Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered to defend his WBO heavyweight crown against Joseph Parker - or face the prospect of being stripped of the prestigious belt. The Ukrainian secured undisputed heavyweight supremacy for a second occasion following his devastating knockout victory over Daniel Dubois before 90,000 spectators at Wembley Stadium last weekend.
Usyk dominated proceedings from the opening bell to the final moment. Although 'Triple D' enjoyed fleeting success during the contest, the 'Cat' swiftly concluded matters in the fifth round. Usyk floored the British fighter with a crushing right hook and against expectations, Dubois managed to rise from the canvas, only to be finished moments afterwards when the Ukrainian unleashed a precision left hand.
Following his second triumph over the Briton, Usyk has received a rather firm directive from the WBO. The sanctioning organisation has commanded the two-weight undisputed champion to put the title on the line against Parker.
In correspondence dispatched to both camps, the WBO stated: "Gentlemen: Please be advised that the WBO World Championship Committee is hereby ordering the commencement of negotiations between the subject matter fighters to discharge the mandatory title defence obligation.
"By virtue of this order, the parties have thirty (30) days upon issuance of this letter to reach terms. Failure to do so will result in this committee ordering purse bid proceedings in accordance with WBO regulations of World Championship Contests. The minimum bid in the Heavyweight division is one-million dollars ($1,000,000.00). Any of the parties herein may request purse bid proceedings at any time during negotiation stages.
"Lastly, the WBO reserves its right to issue any and all further rulings deemed necessary, helpful and convenient to accomplish the purposes, policies, and intent of the WBO rules, including but not limited to serving those interests that best serve boxing, and the WBO Heavyweight Division. Do not hesitate to contact the WBO headquarters if you have any questions or concerns."
Should Usyk choose not to face Parker, he will be forced to surrender his WBO belt - or face being stripped of it.