Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight champion, has revealed his retirement plan, stating he intends to hang up his gloves after two more fights.
The Ukrainian, who turned 38 last month, also named Joseph Parker or Daniel Dubois as his likely next opponent.
Usyk solidified his reign at the top of the heavyweight division with a repeat victory over Tyson Fury in December.
Despite a strong start from Fury, Usyk rallied to control the later rounds and secure the win. Now, the two-division champion (having also achieved undisputed status at cruiserweight) is looking towards the end of his illustrious career.
“I will fight who will win, Joseph Parker, Daniel Dubois, no problem,” Usyk told Sky Sports. “I think two years, one and a half [left in boxing]. I feel great myself. I feel I have two fights to prepare [for], not more. Just two.”
The most likely next challenge for Usyk appears to be the winner of the upcoming bout between Parker and Dubois.
A rematch with Dubois, in particular, would be highly anticipated. Their previous encounter nearly two years ago ended with a Usyk victory by stoppage, but the fight was marked by controversy.
Dubois landed a shot that dropped Usyk, but it was ruled a low blow, much to Dubois’s frustration.
Dubois made his intentions clear after Usyk’s recent win over Fury, confronting the champion in the ring and demanding a rematch.
“I want my revenge,” Dubois stated. “I want my revenge Usyk! Well done tonight, well done. God bless. I want my revenge for the robbery last time. Let’s go, let’s go. Make it happen Frank!”
Usyk responded positively to the challenge, saying, “Your excellency, make the fight with Daniel Dubois. Thank you so much. I can do more. I’m ready to fight (Dubois), no problem. Next fight no problem. Now I want to go home and rest.”
Despite Dubois’s desire for revenge, many believe Usyk will once again prove too strong.
Former heavyweight David Price, speaking to Mirror Fighting on behalf of casino.org, highlighted Usyk’s consistent high level of performance.
“It’s not like you’re fighting someone who just had one good night and you had a bad night,” Price said. “You’re fighting someone who consistently performs at a high level, and is accurate almost every time. It will be difficult for Dubois to make any adjustments that change the outcome of the fight.”
