USYK has NOT been granted EXTENSION

Yeah that's basically what I was thinking.
Have Usyk ringside to climb into the ring and challenge after the bell etc.
Wishful thinking probably

 

For sure, but what's in it for Parker?

Unless it gets ordered by the WBO (who am I kidding, that's what's gonna happen isn't it?) I wouldn't recommend it to Parker. He won't get credit for a win unless Itauma first legitimizes himself against someone it the top 10 and probably not even then tbh.

 

If Usyk drops the WBO and Parker is elevated. I can see the Itauma fight being made as he is the current number 1 challenger, but I can also see them giving it a pass.

I have a sneaking suspicion that Andy Lee and Parker actually like that fight, despite what Andy Lee has said, as they see Itauma as a rising threat and would rather get him early. Plus it could be a great investment in Parker's resume if Itauma goes on to rule the division like most seem to believe.

 

Very dissapointed in Usyk for letting this fall trough.

 

I don't think this is as clear cut as it appears.

From an article dated 23rd August :

Gustavo Olivieri, President of the World Boxing Organization (WBO), confirmed that the body will decide on Monday regarding the request from undisputed Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk to extend negotiations for his mandatory defense against interim champion Joseph Parker.

“Usyk has requested more time to continue negotiations for the fight with Parker, and the Committee will make a decision this coming Monday,” Olivieri stated.

Not sure how accurate the above statement is, but time to 'continue negotiations.' Not a word has been spoken between Usyk and Parker.

 

Looking at the WBO's own website, the letter they issued regarding the 30 day deadline was dated July 22nd. So, going off that date, the 30 day deadline has well and truly expired, regardless of what time zone you are in.

 

The lack of transparency in this matter is staggering. Particularly when the WBO have a News section on their website that contains updates of all matter of things except this one.

 

They gave or want to give the extension but struggle how to explain it without everybody accusing them that they cover the duck after being paid off .

Of course , asking for an extension to even start negotarions and confirm parker as next opponent is beyond insane.
Nobody expects usyk to actually fight parker next week , so any explanation of some fancy injury or wish for time at home is plain stupid .

 

I think anyone can relate to Usyk wanting to have some time off and spend it with his family, and I genuinely can't see Parker being the guy to try and deny him that. Considering most of the negotiations aren't going to be between the fighters themselves but members of their teams, i just can't see what's holding things up at this stage.

Saw a YouTuber with a clip of Turki saying he's putting the fight on in December but he didn't say Usyk or Parker's names that I saw. Any other rumors floating?

 

What fight is that? Just a heavyweight championship fight? Or just a fight card in general?

 

It was supposed to be the Usyk-Parker fight, but no detail beyond that and honestly the clip I saw could have been old or talking about another fight

 

Fight Wire is the channel if you want to go take a look.
Honestly don't think it's able to be counted on as a source tbh

Edit for context - saw Itauma's next fight is apparently in December and it got me thinking of this...