Oleksandr Usyk says he plans on fighting until he’s 41. That number is far from definite for the 38-year-old undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs). It all could change depending on injuries and how his career is going.
Fury Trilogy Remains on the Table
Usyk’s return to the ring has been delayed due to a back injury. He states that he’s in “negotiations” for a fight, but he is not revealing who that fighter is. It won’t be Moses Itauma. It would be interesting to see if Usyk chooses someone we least suspect to use as a tune-up.
A trilogy match between Tyson Fury and Usyk would be fun. ‘The Gypsy King’ Fury is still bitter about his two losses, complaining and wanting to get revenge.
Seeing them fight again would attract a lot of attention, with Fury, bellyaching 24/7 about how he was given a raw deal in the first two fights. He’d be playing the victim angle, wanting fans to feel sorry for him. Even if he was given the business in the first fight, he’s so rich now. He’s over $160 million, and maybe even more.
WBO Mandatory: Parker or Wardley?
The mandatory that Oleksandr must satisfy at the moment is the WBO against Joseph Parker. With him fighting WBA interim champion Fabio Wardley on October 25, it’s possible the WBO mandatory situation could change names after that contest. Of the two, Wardley would be more vulnerable due to his primitive slugging style.
Usyk Extends His Career Plan
“I’ll fight until I’m 41. Then I’ll build a sports academy. I’ll train there and train others,” said Oleksandr Usyk via Sky Sports Boxing. “Next year,” he said, “and, God willing, I’ll win.”
“I can’t say who exactly because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name,” said Usyk.
It’s understandable why Usyk would want to fight another two to three years until 41. He’s making so much money with every fight. The best paydays for Usyk would be against these guys:
- Tyson Fury
- Anthony Joshua
- Moses Itauma
- Joseph Parker
- Fabio Wardley
Why Itauma Must Wait
“No, I won’t fight Itauma [next]. He’s young – always teasing me. And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas!” Usyk said about Moses Itauma.
Since 2015, Olly Campbell has brought readers a clear ringside perspective and a steady voice on boxing’s biggest nights.