Tyson Fury has dismissed Oleksandr Usyk's plan to return to cruiserweight, insisting the Ukrainian will only fight again if he is across the ring from him, and has floated a March trilogy bout.
Usyk, who relinquished his titles earlier this year, had been expected to stay at heavyweight and was eyeing a farewell fight against Deontay Wilder in 2027, but those talks fell through. He also expressed interest in a third meeting with Fury, despite beating the Morecambe fighter twice in 2024.
Usyk eyes cruiserweight return
Usyk's future remains uncertain, but he is expected to fight next year and is hoping for a potential showdown with undefeated David Benavidez. Speaking to DAZN, Usyk said: "I cleaned out heavyweight and now I'll go back to my weight. Now [I weigh] 96/97kg. Today there is change at heavyweight, if I have an opportunity at cruiserweight, I'm back. It's a big fight because Benavidez is a big champion. When I have an opportunity, I take this opportunity. This is life."
Fury's response
Fury, who has long called for a third clash with Usyk and insisted he should have won the previous two encounters, is not convinced. Speaking to Michelle Joy Phelps, he said: "I do not think that is going to happen (Usyk moving down to cruiserweight). If it is not me then Oleksandr Usyk will not be fighting again. Definitely not. I just think he wants a big payday and I am the man to give him that. Whether he does or not… I do not know. I cannot see him dropping down to fight (David) Benavidez. And I cannot see him fighting random fighters for no money. Not at 40 years of age (fighting for the glory of the titles). You are fighting for the glory of the paycheque."
Trilogy talks
Fury has been handed some hope that a trilogy could come to fruition after holding talks with Usyk recently. The Brit offered the Ukrainian the chance to fill in for Joshua should something happen, but Usyk declined. The 39-year-old is currently enjoying time with his family, but is targeting a potential return in March. "I actually spoke with Oleksandr to say 'if Joshua does not fight, we will do it.' And he said he was busy," Fury said. "He has gone on holiday with his family, but he could do a fight in March. So, maybe we do that in March."
Fury will return to the ring next month when he takes on Anthony Joshua.
