In the ever-changing landscape of heavyweight boxing, Oleksandr Usyk has made one thing clear. The unified champion wants one last decisive battle before walking away from the game.
Usyk, who holds the WBA, WBO and WBC heavyweight titles, says his ultimate goal is a decisive fight with Tyson Fury. After dominating both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions for years, the Ukrainian star believes the fight against Fury will provide the final chapter to his career.
The 39-year-old has spent the last few years climbing every mountain in boxing. From Olympic gold to becoming the undisputed cruiserweight champion and later conquering the heavyweight ranks, Usyk's resume already places him among the sport's elite.
Now he wants another challenge.
Oleksandr Usyk outlines final fight plan
Usyk recently provided rare clarity during an interview with Inside the Ring about how he sees his career ending.
The champion revealed he has no interest in facing the division's youngest rising prospects, including fast-rising British heavyweight Moses Itauma. Instead, he wants to focus on established contenders before closing out his career with Fury.
"I don't want to fight Itauma because he's a young guy. I don't want to break this guy. Rico. First is this. Second is whoever wins between Wardley and Dubois. Wardley or Dubois. And the third fight, it's my friend, 'Greedy Bailey,' Tyson Fury."
His comments outline a clear roadmap. It appears Usyk is set to sort out the British heavyweight scene between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois before facing the eventual winner.
Only then does he envision the final act of his career: a long-awaited meeting with Fury.
Frank Warren welcomes Usyk's desire for Tyson Fury showdown
Interest in a potential fight extends beyond Usyk's camp. Veteran promoter Frank Warren, who works closely with Fury and several other top British heavyweights, believes the champion's comments could shape the future of the division. Warren responded to the seriousness of Usyk's statement, telling Sky Sports.
"We are ready for it. There is a lot of disappointment because of Fabio [Wardley] he wanted [Usyk fight before]. But the fact that Oleksandr has come out and said that he wants the winner out of both of them is very encouraging. And obviously for both guys, it gives them a lot of encouragement,” Usyk said when discussing the possibility of returning to fight in Saudi Arabia.
Warren also manages rising contenders Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, who both remain in the conversation for the heavyweight division.
Oleksandr Usyk focused on preparation as fight location remains uncertain
Major boxing competitions often come with logistical challenges, especially in a global sport where venues change depending on financial support and safety concerns. Usyk admitted that the location of his next fight is still uncertain, but he is focused on his preparation.
"Given the situation unfolding in the world currently, my job is just to be ready for what I am preparing for. Then the organizers will decide where it can be held, where they can stage the show so that it is safe for all the participants and the audience."
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has become a major destination for high-profile boxing events. Many major fights have been staged there thanks to significant financial backing and global broadcasting deals.
However, the venue is not the main concern for Usyk. His focus remains on getting the right opponent.
What would the Fury fight mean for the heavyweight division
A potential clash between Usyk and Fury would carry huge risks. Both fighters have dominated different eras of the heavyweight landscape, and a meeting between them would likely determine the true king of the division.
Warren hinted that the path to that fight might involve the British claimants settling their rivalry first.
“We have a great relationship with them, and if we can do some business, we definitely will.”
For Usyk, motivation extends beyond titles or financial rewards. After a career full of historic achievements, he wants a definitive ending.
