Oleksandr Usyk Verdict Reached Following Controversial Social Media Video

An investigation was launched after a controversial video of Oleksandr Usyk emerged online amid his injury claim.

Usyk stopped Daniel Dubois to become undisputed world heavyweight champion again.

He was subsequently ordered to face Joseph Parker, who is in possession of the WBO interim world heavyweight title.

Both parties were given 30 days to reach an agreement before purse bids were called.

Team Parker, however, said no discussions over a fight had taken place.

The idea of Usyk vacating the WBO championship had been mooted to waive away his mandatory fight against Parker.

But it was later revealed that the Ukrainian had filed for an extension due to the injuries he sustained in his emphatic victory over Dubois last July.

However, the validity of his injury was questioned after a video of Usyk dancing alongside a singer on stage quickly went viral on social media.

The WBO acted swiftly as they opened an investigation, demanding an updated medical prognosis from Team Usyk.

But the governing body were satisfied with the evidence they received regarding the 38-year-old's injury.

So, he has been granted a 90-day extension on medical grounds to negotiate his mandatory defence against Parker.

WBO chairman Luis Batista Salas issued a statement in the wake of the investigation.

"Team Usyk’s petition for a 90-day extension is granted on medical grounds," it read.

"The 90-day extension shall have a retroactive effect from the date of submission, August 9, 2025.

"Mr. Joseph Parker, Interim Heavyweight Champion, is authorized to defend his interim title against a suitable opponent approved by this Committee, during the extension period.

"Mr. Oleksandr Usyk shall be mandated to face next the WBO Interim Heavyweight Champion; no intervening bouts will be allowed.

"Failure by Mr. Usyk to comply with this mandate shall trigger this Committee’s intervention to proceed accordingly.

"This Resolution is final, definitive, and enforceable."

Parker, though, isn't waiting around as he has opted to face Fabio Wardley, who holds the WBA interim world heavyweight title, which he captured in his victory over Justis Huni last June.

The heavyweight clash between Parker and Wardley will headline a card from London's O2 Arena on October 25.

The winner is in line to challenge Usyk for his undisputed championship.