A key figure in Oleksandr Usyk's circle has launched a passionate plea to the boxing world regarding the fighter's future plans.
The Ukrainian superstar beat Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium last month to become undisputed heavyweight champion for a second time and extend his professional record to 24-0.
Days after his fifth-round knockout of the British fighter, the WBO ordered Usyk to stage a mandatory defence against Joseph Parker.
There was a 30-day window implemented for the two fighters' teams to begin and complete negotiations, otherwise purse bids would begin.
Usyk requested an extension over negotiating a defence against the New Zealander due to sustaining an injury in his recent fight. That extension has since been granted.
Parker's promoter David Higgins recently told Sky Sports that talks are yet to begin with Usyk's team over staging a potential showdown, and that he is skeptical the undisputed heavyweight champion is keen on taking up this particular fight.
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Usyk and his team to take necessary time to plan next fight
Director of Usyk's team, Serhii Lapin, has come out and explained the lack of movement over plans for the heavyweight superstar's next fight.
He alluded to the Ukrainian's two fights with Tyson Fury last year and the recent bout with Dubois taking a toll on the fighter.
"Usyk has accomplished a historic achievement by becoming the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion twice. That demanded tremendous physical and mental effort and great sacrifice," Lapin explained in an exclusive interview with Ready to Fight.
Lapin then suggested that Usyk's achievements should grant him some grace in the boxing world.
"The champion has earned the chance to recover from the effects of a punishing training regime and from injuries that are invisible to the outside world, and ultimately, rest and spend time with his family," he said.
Usyk's team director then issued a warning to those looking to force the 38-year-old into making an imminent decision over his next appearance in the ring.
"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."