Oleksandr Usyk learns results of investigation into controversial video

Oleksandr Usyk will NOT be stripped of one of his world titles despite a video of him dancing casting doubt on his injury claim.

The undisputed heavyweight world champion was ordered to defend his WBO title against interim champion Joseph Parker but requested an extension, claiming to be suffering from a back injury. However, a video then surfaced of the Ukrainian dancing whilst attending a concert, prompting the WBO to launch an investigation.

But the sanctioning body has now revealed it is satisfied with the evidence provided by Usyk's team, and have granted him a 90-day extension to agree a fight with Parker - or be forced to relinquish his belt, reports All Out Fighting.

"Team Usyk's petition for a 90-day extension is granted on medical grounds," read a letter addressed to Usyk and Parker's teams from the WBO. "The 90-day extension shall have a retroactive effect from the date of submission, August 9, 2025. Mr. Joseph Parker, interim heavyweight champion, is authorised to defend his interim title against a suitable opponent approved by this committee, during the extension period.

READ MORE: Floyd Mayweather responds to Mike Tyson critics exactly as you would expect

READ MORE: Floyd Mayweather vs Mike Tyson fight CONFIRMED - with combined age of 107

"Mr. Oleksandr Usyk shall be mandated to face next the WBO interim heavyweight champion; no intervening bouts will be allowed. Failure by Mr. Usyk to comply with this mandate shall trigger this committee's intervention to proceed accordingly. This resolution is final, definitive, and enforceable."

The WBO's decision means Parker's bout with Fabio Wardley in London on 25 October won't be elevated to a full world title fight. Instead, the match will see New Zealander Parker put his position as Usyk's mandatory challenger at risk, while Wardley will aim for the most significant victory of his career.

Promoter Frank Warren announced the fight, stating: "This will be a corker of a heavyweight clash and one which will shine a huge light on the division. Fights like this one are as good as it can get outside of the champion defending his belts and the sort we want to see happen.

"Neither Joe or Fabio wanted to wait about and protect their positions and credit to them both for this. I believe this is a genuine even-money fight with a mesh of styles that I am sure will be eye-catching and highly crowd-pleasing.

"We promised to keep firing up this heavyweight division and we intend to keep all the contenders jockeying for position until the time come to fight for the ultimate prize.

"It is wonderful to be back at The O2 Arena with 'All or Nothing'. It will be a great show with some extremely competitive and meaningful fights on the undercard. This event will be the hottest ticket in town."