Oleksandr Usyk has had his boxing license suspended by the British Boxing Board of Control, putting his rematch with Tyson Fury in jeopardy.

The Ukrainian fighter recently achieved the biggest win of his career by defeating the previously undefeated Fury. In a closely contested 12-round bout, two of the three ringside judges awarded Usyk a split decision victory.

Following this victory, Usyk was handed a lengthy suspension that will keep him out of the ring until July 2, 2024, sidelining him for nearly 14 months. Usyk suffered some injuries during the fight and was expected to take time off to recover before returning to competition.

Tyson Fury, who experienced his first career loss, was eager for a rematch and activated a clause in his contract for an immediate second bout. The two were set to face off again in October this year, but those plans are now on hold. Approaching his 37th birthday, Fury remains determined to avenge his lone career defeat and reclaim his status.

Despite the loss, Fury delivered an impressive performance, likely leading on the scorecards until the ninth round when Usyk landed a crushing left and follow-up shots that nearly knocked Fury out. Fury recovered and fought back, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win in the judges’ eyes.