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Boxing chiefs have ordered Oleksandr Usyk to provide an updated medical report after a video emerged online showing the world heavyweight champion dancing energetically at a public event.
The Ukrainian, 38, had previously asked for extra time to negotiate a mandatory defence against Joseph Parker, citing ongoing back problems that required rest and physiotherapy.
But footage shared on social media this week appeared to show Usyk spinning, waving his arms and hopping enthusiastically in time to music while on stage alongside Ukrainian pop star Dorofeeva – prompting the WBO to step in.
In a letter to Usyk's representatives, WBO Championship Committee chairman Luis Batista Salas demanded 'detailed and thorough' clarification of the fighter's current health.
The organisation said the update must outline Usyk's present condition, recovery timeline and supporting medical evidence – and warned that failure to comply could lead to disciplinary action under its rules.
'The committee cannot allow further delay or uncertainty without satisfactory clarification,' Salas wrote.
Oleksandr Usyk was recently filmed dancing on stage, sparking the attention of boxing chiefs
Usyk was seen busting out a variety of disco shapes alongside Ukrainian pop star Dorofeeva
The footage has raised eyebrows because previous medical documentation, submitted in early August, recommended a period of complete rest followed by therapy. Usyk's camp had even requested a 90-day suspension of negotiations, which the WBO had been prepared to accept.
Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) was instructed in late July to begin talks with Parker, a former WBO champion with a record of 36-3, to defend the title. Instead, the Ukrainian informed officials he was undergoing treatment for back issues sustained during a punishing run of three title defences in just over a year, including his epic 2024 rematch with Tyson Fury.
With doubts over Usyk's fitness, Parker is now moving towards a voluntary fight before the end of the year. Britain's Fabio Wardley (19-0-1) has emerged as the frontrunner to land that bout if the Usyk contest is further delayed.
The video, posted by DAZN with the caption 'A career after boxing beckons, for undisputed champ Oleksandr Usyk,' showed the champion enjoying himself. But it has also sparked an administrative headache. The WBO has requested a fresh medical update by Monday.
