Epic challenge! Joseph Parker Lanza Lanza Ultimatum 12 words to Oleksandr Usyk to avoid it deliberately
At 01:29 AM +07 on Saturday, August 9, 2025, the boxing world was turned on with a bold challenge by Joseph Parker aimed at Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed world weight world champion. Parker, the New Zealand contender, took his X account to launch an ultimatum of 12 words after accusing Usyk of dodging him intentionally. The statement, made in the middle of the night, has fueled the flames of a latent rivalry, promising a confrontation that could redefine the heavy division.
The Parker’s ultimatum
In an X post at 01:15 am +07, Parker wrote: “Usyk, stop running. Fight with me or lose your legacy.” The 12 words, loaded with challenge, reflect the frustration of former WBO champion, who has a 35-3 record with 23 knockouts. Parker, 33, has been pressing for a fight with Usyk since his unanimous decision victory over Zhilei Zhang on March 21, 2025, but the negotiations have been stagnant, feeding his evasion narrative.
In a later interview with Sky Sports Nz at 01:20 AM +07, Parker expanded his position: “I have called Ussyk several times. There are always excuses. If you don’t fight, they say it clear.” Parker’s direct tone suggests that he sees this fight as an opportunity to claim his place among the elites, especially after his resurgence in 2024-2025.
Context of rivalry
The tension between both dates from years ago. Ussyk, with an impeccable 23-0 and victories about Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, has dominated the heavy division since 2021. Parker, who lost his title WBO against Joshua in 2018, has climbed positions with key victories, but a confrontation with Usyk never concretized. Ussyk has prioritized high profile fights, such as his trilogy with Fury, leaving Parker waiting.
Parker’s recent triumph over Zhang, a heavyweight with knockout power, positioned him as a mandatory CMB contender, but Usyk, under contract with his promoter Alexander Krassyuk, has opted for other opponents, as a possible third combat with Fury in December 2025. This has led Parker to accuse USK of avoiding it deliberately.
Reactions and analysis
Parker’s statement unleashed a whirlwind in X, with #Parkervsusyk Trending at 01:25 AM +07. New Zealand fans supported their boldness, while some defended USYK, citing their busy schedule. Fury tweeted at 01:18 am +07: “Parker, wait for your turn. Usyk is busy with me,” adding firewood to the fire.
BBC Sport’s Steve Bunce analyst commented: “Parker has a point. Usyk has evaded several contestants, but his focus on Fury makes commercial sense.” However, Parker’s coach Andy Lee insisted: “Joseph deserves this fight. Usyk can’t ignore it anymore.”
What follows?
At 01:29 AM +07, Parker’s ultimatum puts Ushk in a dilemma. Rejecting the fight could damage its reputation, while accepting it would divert your attention from Fury. Krassyuk has not yet responded, but a statement is scheduled for tomorrow. The WBC could force the fight if Parker presses its mandatory contender status.
This night challenge marks a turning point. Will USYK respond with a fight or with silence? For now, the ring waiting, with the heavy division to the edge of a war announced.
