If you're looking for undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk to fight either Moses Itauma, Joseph Parker, or a trilogy with Tyson Fury, the brakes may need to be pumped a bit.
In an interview released on Monday with RTFight.com, the director of Usyk's team and CEO of Ready to Fight, Serhii Lapin, said that after three gruelling fights with Fury (twice) and Daniel Dubois, he needs to take a break and decide what his fighting future is going to be.
“Throughout his entire professional career, both Oleksandr Usyk and our whole team have proven that we respect all potential opponents as well as the rules that govern professional boxing," Lapin said.
"Over the past year and a half, Usyk has accomplished a historic achievement by becoming the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion twice. That demanded tremendous physical and mental effort, and great sacrifice.
"The champion has earned the chance to let his body recover from the effects of a punishing training regime and from injuries that are often invisible to the outside world. And, ultimately, simply to rest and spend time with his family.
"Most importantly: he has earned the right to choose his own future – and to take the time he needs to make that decision.
"So, guys, don’t push the horses."
The WBO had made Parker, their interim titlist, the next challenger for Usyk, and in the pecking order, the sanctioning bodiey was designated next to face Usyk. Last week, Usyk's team revealed an injury and requested an extension from the WBO.
Fury announced his retirement after losing to Usyk for the second time back in December. Recently, Fury's been hinting at making a comeback but would only do so for Usyk.
After dispatching Dillian Whyte in just under two minutes on Saturday, the public, including DAZN News, has been calling for Itauma vs Usyk to be next for all four heavyweight titles.
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