Usyk Requests a Voluntary Title Defense — and It’s Been Approved

WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said that reigning WBC, WBA and IBF Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk submitted a request for a voluntary defense of his title during the 63rd WBC Congress in Bangkok, Thailand.

“Deontay Wilder is currently ranked around No. 8–9, so he is eligible to fight Oleksandr Usyk if the sides want it. Usyk filed a request for a voluntary title defense, and today it was approved,” said Sulaiman.

Earlier, Usyk stated that he wants Wilder as his next opponent. Deontay also commented on the proposal.