Oleksandr Usyk Targets Deontay Wilder as Next Opponent in Upcoming Championship Bout

Oleksandr Usyk Targets Deontay Wilder as Next Opponent

Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has publicly expressed his desire to face Deontay Wilder in his upcoming fight. Usyk, who recently secured his status as a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion by stopping Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July, sees Wilder as his top choice moving forward.

At 38 years old, Usyk has decided to vacate his WBO belt, allowing Britain’s Fabio Wardley to be recognized as the full champion. Speaking to Boxing King Media, Usyk emphasized the appeal of a clash with Wilder, stating, "I want to fight Deontay Wilder. I think it’s interesting." This highlights Usyk’s interest in maintaining high-profile bouts that could attract global attention.

Deontay Wilder, a former WBC world champion, once stood as one of the most feared punchers in the heavyweight division. However, his career faced setbacks after consecutive defeats against Joseph Parker in 2023 and Zhilei Zhang in 2024. These losses significantly impacted Wilder’s standing in the heavyweight rankings.

Despite these challenges, Wilder made a comeback in June with a seventh-round stoppage victory over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, marking his first fight in over a year. At 40, Wilder still carries a reputation as a significant figure in heavyweight boxing. Usyk acknowledged this by calling Wilder "a world champion guy" and “one of the great heavyweights of the last 10 years.”

Usyk’s plan was confirmed after discussions with his team, who agreed that Wilder represents the ideal opponent at this stage of his career. By choosing Wilder as his next rival, Usyk aims to keep his championship reign compelling and competitive.

Key Points:

1. Usyk defeated Dubois in July to become a two-time undisputed champion.
2. He vacated the WBO heavyweight belt and named Wilder his first fighting option.
3. Wilder has struggled recently but remains a respected heavyweight figure.
4. Usyk values Wilder’s reputation and sees the fight as highly interesting.

Usyk’s decision to challenge Wilder reflects his ongoing ambition to face notable contenders and maintain his dominance in the heavyweight division. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as negotiations unfold for this potential blockbuster matchup.