Alexander Usyk's Future Plans
Ukrainian boxer Alexander Usyk has relinquished his WBO title and lost his status as the undisputed world champion, as he intends to stage a final career fight against Tyson Fury. Usyk, the reigning WBA, WBC, IBF, and IBO world heavyweight champion, holds a professional record of 24 wins, 15 of which were by knockout. His most recent bout was in May 2025 against Daniel Dubois, where he secured the undisputed championship for the second time in his career. This move sets the stage for a historic clash in the heavyweight division.
The 39-year-old Usyk has also announced a planned fight with kickboxer Rico Verhoeven. Demonstrating his athletic versatility, Usyk recently played approximately 15 minutes in a friendly football match between the teams 'Polissya' and 'Vancouver Whitecaps'. He entered the field in the second half wearing number 17, with the score at 2:0 in favor of 'Polissya', and the match concluded with that same result.
Usyk's Statements and Upcoming Fights
Usyk's team has formally petitioned the World Boxing Organization (WBO) regarding the future of its heavyweight title. Alexander Usyk emphasized the significance of the Fury fight, stating:
“In my mind, Tyson Fury is the last dance.”
He further expressed a desire to continue boxing and to face Deontay Wilder, whom he described as a 'former world champion, a famous and very powerful boxer,' adding that Wilder has been one of the best heavyweights of the past decade. The potential bout with Tyson Fury represents a pivotal moment for Usyk, one that will not only define his legacy but also shape the immediate future of the heavyweight landscape. While forfeiting the WBO belt underscores his commitment to a high-profile exit, it simultaneously creates new opportunities for other contenders in the division.
As Usyk prepares for his anticipated showdown with Tyson Fury, concerns have been raised about his upcoming kickboxing match with Rico Verhoeven. Industry experts, including Frank Warren, warn that this bout could jeopardize Usyk's standing in the boxing world, particularly regarding the WBC title. To understand the potential implications of this decision on Usyk's career and title defenses, explore the insights shared by Warren.