Oleksandr Usyk says plans are beginning to take shape for what he
expects will be the final fight of his storied professional boxing
career.
The former undisputed heavyweight champion is targeting one final
marquee bout before calling time on his career. Deontay
Wilder has emerged as the leading candidate, while Dana
White’s Zuffa Boxing is reportedly among the promotional
options.
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Oleksandr Usyk says his retirement fight could take place in
the United States against Deontay Wilder as Zuffa Boxing emerges as
an option
Speaking on Daily Mail’s „The Hook“ podcast, Usyk revealed that his
farewell bout is expected to take place in the United States
against a high-profile opponent. He added that his last fight will
either take place at the year-end or in early 2027.
“Maybe in New York, [in a] stadium. It’s going to be against a big
name,” Usyk said. “This could be maybe early next year, or at the
end of this year, maybe December.”
The Ukrainian was also asked whether his final appearance could
come under the Zuffa Boxing banner. While he did not confirm any
agreement, he acknowledged that his team is exploring its
options.
“It could be Zuffa, but now I don’t think about boxing. I think
about training for boxing,” he said.
Meanwhile, according to Usyk’s team director, Sergey
Lapin, Wilder remains the preferred opponent for the
heavyweight star’s farewell fight.
Usyk last fought in April, defeating Rico
Verhoeven to remain unbeaten as a professional.