In a shocking turn of events that has sent ripples across the boxing world, Joseph Parker has dropped a bombshell revelation about Oleksandr Usyk—a disclosure that has left fans, pundits, and even rival fighters completely stunned. As speculation continues to swirl about whether Usyk will fulfill his WBO mandatory defense against Parker, the Kiwi heavyweight has added gasoline to the fire with a jaw-dropping claim that could reshape how we view the undisputed champion’s intentions.

“Usyk Never Wanted to Fight Me,” Parker Reveals

In a recent, highly-publicized interview with Sky Sports NZ, Joseph Parker didn’t hold back, stating that Oleksandr Usyk has allegedly been avoiding a fight with him for years—even long before the WBO declared Parker as the mandatory challenger.

“Let me be clear. Usyk never wanted to fight me. Not now, not ever,” Parker said with a calm but serious tone. “His team has turned down offers before, and they’ll likely do it again. They’re looking for names, not danger.”

This unexpected statement has thrown serious doubt on Usyk’s next move. The Ukrainian champion, fresh off his stunning knockout win over Daniel Dubois, is now in the crosshairs—not just of Parker, but of the boxing world questioning whether the “undisputed” king really wants to defend all four belts.

Insider Claims Back Parker’s Accusations

Backing up Parker’s claim is an anonymous source from within his training camp, who revealed that negotiations with Usyk’s team have quietly failed multiple times since 2022.

“People think Usyk is afraid of Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder, but the truth is, he’s always viewed Parker as a stylistic nightmare. Joe is quicker than people realize. His chin is solid. And he doesn’t fall for the usual setups,” the source claimed.

If true, this suggests that Usyk’s team may be strategically avoiding certain matchups—not because of name value, but due to tactical risks.

Why Would Usyk Avoid Parker?

On the surface, Parker may not seem like the most lucrative opponent. He doesn’t have the trash-talking magnetism of Fury or the one-punch knockout fear factor of Wilder. But Parker has a unique style: patient, durable, and difficult to break down. That combination might not sell millions of pay-per-views, but it can disrupt even the most elite boxers.

Parker’s bombshell also reignites debate over whether Usyk is truly interested in defending his titles against every challenger or simply cherry-picking fights that preserve his undefeated record and international marketability.

“I respect what Usyk has done,” Parker admitted. “He’s a great champion. But if you’re going to call yourself undisputed, then you can’t be selective. You have to fight who the sanctioning bodies put in front of you. That includes me.”

Fan Reactions: “Is Usyk Protecting His Legacy?”

Social media lit up within minutes of Parker’s comments going public. Reactions were split—some fans praised Parker for speaking the truth, while others accused him of trying to stir drama after years outside the spotlight.

• @BoxingTruth101 tweeted: “If what Parker’s saying is true, Usyk’s legacy takes a hit. You can’t duck mandatories and still be called the GOAT.”

• @FightNightNews added: “Respect to Parker. A real fighter doesn’t just chase money. He chases greatness. Give the man his shot!”

• @EasternEuropeanChamp responded: “No one’s ducking Parker. Let’s not forget he lost to Joyce, Whyte, and Joshua. Usyk would outbox him easily.”

The debate is now red-hot, and boxing insiders believe this revelation could put pressure on Usyk to respond—or risk damaging his brand.

Usyk’s Camp Responds…Kind Of

Within hours of Parker’s comments making headlines, a spokesperson from Usyk’s camp issued a cryptic response via a Ukrainian sports outlet:

“Champions fight who they want, not who others want. Oleksandr has nothing to prove.”

This ambiguous statement has only fueled more speculation that Usyk may indeed vacate the WBO title instead of facing Parker—especially if he continues to pursue high-profile super fights, potentially with Tyson Fury, who recently teased a comeback for 2026.

What This Means for the WBO Title Picture

According to WBO regulations, Usyk has 30 days from his last fight to negotiate a title defense with Parker or risk being stripped of the title. If that happens, Parker could be elevated from interim to full champion—or face another top contender for the vacant belt.

But that’s not the outcome Parker wants.

“I don’t want the belt handed to me,” he said. “I want to beat the best to prove I belong at the top. I want Usyk.”

Will Boxing Fans Get the Fight They Deserve?

Whether Usyk responds to Parker’s challenge or walks away from the WBO belt, this bombshell has ignited a narrative shift. No longer is Parker just a former champ trying to claw his way back—he’s now a man with a purpose, and a serious claim that threatens Usyk’s image as an undisputed warrior.

For now, all eyes are on Usyk. Will he answer Parker’s call, or will this explosive accusation go unchallenged?

One thing’s certain: Joseph Parker has flipped the script, and boxing fans around the world will be watching how this drama unfolds.