Lapin on Usyk: “He Has Earned the Right to Choose His Own Future”

Serhii Lapin, director of Undisputed Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk’s team and CEO of Ready to Fight, gave an exclusive interview regarding the Ukrainian’s injury.

Earlier, the World Boxing Organization (WBO) had sanctioned a mandatory title defense for Usyk against interim champion Joseph Parker, but Usyk’s team did not comment on the possibility of holding a fight.

Lapin explained that the pause is related to injuries and the need for recovery after a grueling stretch that included two fights against Tyson Fury in 2024 and the bout with Daniel Dubois on July 19.

“Throughout his entire professional career, both Oleksandr Usyk and our whole team have proven that we respect all potential opponents as well as the rules that govern professional boxing.

Over the past year and a half, Usyk has accomplished a historic achievement by becoming the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion twice. That demanded tremendous physical and mental effort, and great sacrifice.

The champion has earned the chance to let his body recover from the effects of a punishing training regime and from injuries that are often invisible to the outside world. And, ultimately, simply to rest and spend time with his family. Most importantly: he has earned the right to choose his own future – and to take the time he needs to make that decision.

So, guys, don’t push the horses,” Lapin said.

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