Overview

• On July 27 the WBO ordered undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk and interim titleholder Joseph Parker to begin negotiations within 30 days, setting a $1 million minimum purse bid if terms are not agreed
• Promoter Frank Warren told Sky Sports on August 14 that Usyk’s camp has formally requested extra time to negotiate, citing a recent injury as the reason for the delay
• Joseph Parker’s manager, David Higgins, reported no engagement from Team Usyk, prompting speculation over whether the champion intends to defend his WBO title
• Should Usyk vacate or be stripped of the belt, the WBO could elevate Parker to full champion status or mandate a bout with its top-ranked contender
• This weekend’s Moses Itauma vs Dillian Whyte clash will determine the WBO’s No.1 contender and the likely opponent for Parker if the title becomes vacant