‘Corruption at its Finest’: Angered Fans Rip Into WBA For Announcing ‘Pointless’ Oleksandr Usyk Title Defense

Two-division world champion, Oleksandr Usyk is undoubtedly one of the most formidable fighters in the sport of boxing. Moreover, recent times have seen him cruising through the heavyweight division, one explosive showdown at a time. Fans have been waiting in anticipation of what the future holds for Usyk. Meanwhile, it was reported that Usyk has been ordered by the WBA to defend his titles.

Usyk was last seen showcasing a stellar performance against Anthony Joshua at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on August 20, 2022. Notably, this was a rematch after he previously defeated Joshua in 2021. In victory, he went on to retain his WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO heavyweight titles. Additionally, he also won the vacant ‘The Ring Heavyweight’ title.

Oleksandr Usyk has to fight Daniel Dubois

There were multiple names connected to Oleksandr Usyk as potential opponents. However, WBA ordered him to defend his WBA, IBF & WBO heavyweight world titles against the WBA (Regular) heavyweight title holder Daniel Dubois.

Notably, Dubois recently retained his title after defeating Kevin Lerena at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on December 3, 2022.

WBA made the call for the fight at the ratings and championships portion of the recent WBA Centennial Convention at Caribe Royale Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The timing for this announcement was also intriguing, to say the least. In fact, the IBF had also recently ordered him to face Filip Hrgovic. The organization announced a 30-day negotiation period. But, Hrgovic wished to have an immediate purse bid for the same.

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It seems to be that Usyk is already being forced to choose between two potential fights. As he had expressed interest in an undisputed showdown with Tyson Fury, this announcement by WBA only adds to the confusion.

Fans react to the WBA’s announcement

Boxing fans were unsure about the potential matchup announced by the WBA. Moreover, they took to social media to share their thoughts about the same.

A few fans accused boxing promoter, Eddie Hearn, of corruption. One user mentioned that Joe Joyce had to be the next fighter in line.

Meanwhile, a fan mentioned that this matchup was a strategy for a potential Fury vs Usyk showdown.

Some fans felt that Usyk’s undisputed fight against Fury should take prominence over the mandatory fight.

However, a few fans blatantly pointed out that the Usyk vs Dubois showdown was pointless. They were also quick to show their disappointment with the sport of boxing.

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Should Usyk take up the mandatory fight? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.