Oleksandr Usyk is taking his time to consider his future amidst suggestions for him to defend his world titles against Moses Itauma.
Having secured the undisputed heavyweight world champion title for the second time by defeating Daniel Dubois in the fifth round at Wembley last month, Usyk was mandated to face WBO mandatory Joseph Parker but has requested a delay in making a decision due to injury.
After Itauma’s recent victory over Dillian Whyte in the first round, Saudi Arabian boxing chief Turki Alalshikh advocated for a matchup between Usyk and the 20-year-old British fighter. However, Sergey Lapin, a key figure in Usyk’s team, has urged for patience.
Lapin emphasized, “Throughout his professional career, Oleksandr Usyk and our team have shown respect for all potential opponents and the regulations of professional boxing. Usyk’s double accomplishment as the undisputed heavyweight champion in the past year and a half required immense physical and mental exertion and significant sacrifices.”
“The champion deserves the opportunity to recover from rigorous training and hidden injuries, as well as to rest and spend time with his family. Above all, he has earned the right to determine his own future and should be given the time to make that decision. So, let’s not rush him.”
Itauma refrained from directly challenging Usyk, stating, “I don’t feel I merit the chance to fight undisputed world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, but I am willing to face other deserving opponents like Agit Kabayel or Joseph Parker. For now, I plan to rest and then potentially return to training.”
Contrary to Itauma’s stance, Tyson Fury, who faced defeat against Usyk twice last year, believes Itauma is prepared to confront the Ukrainian and would emerge victorious comfortably. Fury expressed his confidence in Itauma’s abilities in a video shared on social media.
Fury stated, “I have firsthand experience and success in boxing, having achieved all titles and accolades in the sport. Boxing favors the youth, as I reminded Wladimir Klitschko when he was 37. Here’s my prediction: Moses Itauma will outshine the older contenders in the division, including Usyk, AJ, Miller, and other veteran fighters.”
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