Temporary WBO heavyweight champion Joseph Parker believes undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk is avoiding a fight with him, using his back injury as an excuse.
Joseph Parker for iFL TV
Is he avoiding me? I think so. I’m not sure why. I think it would be a great fight. He’s seen everything there is in the cruiserweight and heavyweight division. You can’t say he’s scared because he’s fought everybody. So, there might be other reasons why.
On October 25 in London Parker will face WBA interim champion Fabio Wardley.
Parker last fought in February 2025, defeating Martin Bakole by second-round TKO. His record stands at 36 wins (24 by knockout) and three losses.
Wardley’s most recent fight was in June 2025, when he beat Justis Huni by tenth-round knockout. His record is 19 wins (18 by knockout), one draw and no losses.
