Usyk confirms next opponent: Ukrainian to face boxing star
Oleksandr Usyk (photo: RBC-Ukraine)
Ukrainian heavyweight titleholder Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the WBC, WBA, and IBF belts, has revealed his plans for the future. The decorated boxer officially announced the name of the only opponent he wants to face in the ring next year, according to DAZN.
Priority on the "Bronze Bomber"
During a visit to Saudi Arabia for a major event featuring Naoya Inoue, Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) clarified his plans for the next stage of his career.
The 38-year-old Ukrainian emphasized that his main goal for 2026 is a showdown with former world champion Deontay Wilder (44-4-1, 43 KOs).
According to Usyk, he is not considering any other candidates besides the 40-year-old American knockout artist.
"Next year I want to fight the 'Bronze Bomber.' Yes, Wilder," Usyk said, as quoted by DAZN.
@oleksandr.usyk #usykwilder#usyk#oleksandrusyk #усик #fy @DAZNBoxing оригінальний звук - Oleksandr Usyk
Road to the mega fight and WBC stance
To make this bout happen, the Ukrainian side has already taken legal steps. It was previously reported that Usyk applied to the World Boxing Council (WBC) for permission to make a voluntary title defense, with Wilder chosen as the key opponent for this defense.
Although no official date has been set, preparations for negotiations are ongoing. It is expected that before facing the Ukrainian champion, the American may take another tune-up fight to stay in shape.
Condition of the future opponents
Oleksandr Usyk remains undefeated in the professional ring, holding most of the key belts in the division. His potential opponent, Deontay Wilder, last fought in July of this year.
At that time, the American ended a losing streak by securing a stoppage victory over Tyrell Herndon in the seventh round.
