WBA Verdict: How Much Time Usyk Has for a Mandatory Defense

The World Boxing Association (WBA) has issued an official ruling regarding mandatory defenses for its undisputed heavyweight champion, Oleksandr Usyk. The organization has set a specific timeframe for when the Ukrainian must fulfill his obligation.

"The committee has analyzed the current state of the division, Usyk’s individual situation, and has granted him a 24-month period to fulfill his mandatory title defense. The goal of this decision is to allow the champion to take on the strongest possible opponents in the division.

Usyk is competing in defining fights that are shaping a new era in boxing. For this reason, the championship committee, in accordance with internal regulations and the current state of global boxing, prioritizes the organization of the highest-quality matchups.

This is why the mandatory defense period has been extended, giving Usyk the flexibility to pursue the best possible fights," said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Kubrat Pulev, who holds the WBA "regular" heavyweight title, has been ordered to defend his belt against Fabio Wardley.