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Topics: Oleksandr Usyk, Tyson Fury, Boxing
Nasir Jabbar
Oleksandr Usyk has been ordered to defend his world heavyweight titles against his mandatory challenger following the collapse of his proposed bout against Tyson Fury.
The World Boxing Association (WBA) have officially ordered Usyk to face Daniel Dubois.
Both parties have 30 days (until May 2) to negotiate a deal, otherwise the showdown will go to purse bids.
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Usyk's promoter Alex Krassyuk talked up a potential bout against Dubois amid discussions with Team Fury.
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"The closest opportunity for Usyk is the WBA mandatory so it's Daniel Dubois," Krassyuk explained.
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"I had a meeting with George Warren to discuss what we're going to do and what we're able to do."
He continued by suggesting that Usyk vs. Dubois could be staged in the UK, with the undefeated Ukrainian boasting wins over Dereck Chisora, Tony Bellow and Anthony Joshua on British soil.
"We're now working out opportunities and London or Manchester are one of the options we're working on," he added. "Maybe if we can find a solution we can make it in the UK."
Dubois, 25, has reeled off five wins in a row since he suffered his first defeat of his professional career to Joe Joyce back in November 2020.
He has wins over Bogdan Dinu, Joe Cusumano as well as Trevor Bryan, where he captured the WBA (regular) heavyweight title. He defended the belt against Kevin Lerena in his last appearance.
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As for Usyk, he hasn't fought since out-pointing Joshua to defend his world titles in Saudi Arabia last summer.
Dubois 'stepping aside' had been mooted by Frank Warren as both camps tried to make Usyk vs. Fury.
But it appears the Brit will get his chance at Usyk and his world titles.