Former two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua may be in line for a shot at the WBO title, as Oleksandr Usyk is expected to relinquish the belt to pursue a unification bout with IBF champion Daniel Dubois. The WBO has ordered Usyk to defend his title against mandatory challenger Joseph Parker, but the Ukrainian heavyweight champion is reportedly prioritizing a fight with Dubois instead.
According to boxing expert Spencer Oliver, “The WBO is planning to hold a fight between Usyk and Parker, but it will not happen. The Ukrainian is aiming for a fight with Dubois, they will play for three titles.” Oliver added, “It is obvious that the World Boxing Organization will take its belt from the Ukrainian and make Joseph a full-fledged champion.”
This development could open the door for Joshua to challenge Parker for the WBO belt, despite his recent fifth-round knockout loss to Dubois. Oliver explained, “The New Zealander will enter the ring against Anthony Joshua, the most likely contender for the WBO title. Then we will see a fight between the winners for the title of absolute world champion.”
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn recently revealed that the British star is only interested in facing either Tyson Fury or a rematch with Dubois next. “There are only two fights that Anthony is interested in. The first is with Tyson Fury and the second is with Daniel Dubois,” Hearn said.
Interestingly, Usyk still rates Joshua higher than Dubois, despite his recent loss. “Anthony Joshua is Olympic champion, two-time world champion. Daniel is a young boy, yeah? But Anthony is the best boxer,” Usyk told TNT Sports.
The boxing world will be watching closely as these developments unfold, with Joshua potentially eyeing a shot at the WBO title and Usyk pursuing a unification bout with Dubois.