Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has set his sights on a major showdown with former titleholder Deontay Wilder for his planned return to the ring in 2026. This announcement throws a significant spanner in the works for Tyson Fury, who has long pursued a trilogy fight with the Ukrainian unified champion.
Usyk's Change of Heart and Future Plans
The Ukrainian fighter, who last defended his titles with a fifth-round knockout of Daniel Dubois at Wembley in July 2025, had previously suggested he was nearing retirement. However, Usyk has now revised his timeline, stating he sees himself continuing in the sport for another two years. While he once indicated a desire for just one more bout, the lure of a high-profile clash appears to have extended his career horizon.
In calling out the American powerhouse, Usyk heaped praise on Wilder, describing him as "a world champion guy, a very famous guy, this is a strong guy". He went further, labelling Wilder "one of the greatest heavyweight fighters of the last ten years". This call-out comes despite Wilder's recent struggles in the ring, having suffered defeats to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang.
A Major Setback for Tyson Fury
Usyk's clear preference for a Wilder fight represents a substantial blow to the ambitions of British heavyweight Tyson Fury. The 'Gypsy King' has publicly angled for a third fight with Usyk to settle their rivalry, having announced a comeback to the sport. However, with Fury reportedly still uncertain about his own fighting future, Usyk's move towards Wilder could leave him waiting in the wings.
Analysts suggest a high-stakes bout between Usyk and Wilder might be the very event to lure Fury definitively back into the ring. For now, the path to an immediate trilogy is blocked. Wilder, a former WBC champion famed for his devastating power, fought Fury three times, resulting in one dramatic draw and two knockout victories for Fury.
The Road to 2026
Both fighters are eyeing a return in the coming year. Wilder has fought only once in 2025, securing a seventh-round stoppage victory over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon. A clash between the technical mastery of Usyk and the concussive power of Wilder would be one of the most intriguing matchups in the heavyweight division, offering a stark contrast in styles.
While the logistics and official agreements are yet to be finalised, Usyk's public declaration sets the stage for a potentially explosive 2026 in the world of heavyweight boxing. All eyes will now be on Wilder's camp to see if they accept the challenge, and on Fury to see how he responds to this pivotal shift in the division's landscape.
