Usyk vs Wilder fight in talks: What we know so far
Photo: Deontay Wilder (Getty Images)
The former heavyweight world champion Deontay Wilder confirmed that his team is already negotiating a fight with Oleksandr Usyk, according to talkSPORT.
''It is definitely becoming a real conversation''
The American confirmed that both sides have moved on to a concrete discussion of the upcoming fight’s details.
''Boxing is a business, but sometimes it falls through, right now we are in talks for that fight, yes, '' Wilder said.
According to him, he is optimistic about the final decision and ready to start training as soon as the key terms are agreed.
Losses made opponents bolder
Despite having only one win since 2023 and facing repeated calls to retire, Wilder remains one of the most commercially attractive figures in the division. His right-hand punch is still considered one of the most dangerous in the heavyweight category.
Wilder himself believes that his recent defeats have made opponents bolder.
He said he was not surprised by Usyk’s challenge: when you win and score knockouts, you don’t get many chances. But when you lose, suddenly everyone feels confident.
''I wasn't surprised, I was 50/50. It is crazy that you get more chances when you lose, when I was at the top and knocking people out, I didn't get chances, '' he said.
Where and when the fight might take place
The exact details of the upcoming contract have not been disclosed. Wilder is keeping the intrigue and is in no hurry to name possible dates or venues.
However, there are a few factors to consider:
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Wilder has a significant influence in the US market, so a fight in Las Vegas is possible.
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The American previously said he could return to the ring in January, but that timeline now seems unrealistic.
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Usyk is recovering from an injury, so the fight is most likely to take place no earlier than mid-2026.
Usyk vs. Wilder fight: what is known
After defeating Daniel Dubois in the summer, the Ukrainian boxer once again became the undisputed world champion, but shortly afterward decided to vacate the WBO title. This allowed him to independently choose his next opponent – and he selected Wilder.
This turn of events surprised most experts, who had expected him to face one of the division’s top contenders.
Despite the Americans’ recent decline in results, a fight with Usyk could potentially become one of the most commercially successful bouts in the heavyweight division. Usyk will be the clear favorite, given his dominance in the division and consistent form.
