Oleksandr Usyk could retire from boxing within days following his controversial win over Rico Verhoeven. The heavyweight world champion defeated the kickboxing legend last month when the fight was stopped in the penultimate round. Verhoeven later lodged an appeal after the referee waved the fight off after the bell sounded, but the Dutchman was unsuccessful as Usyk held on to his belts.
Usyk's Advisor Hints at Retirement
The Ukrainian is currently negotiating with mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel, but his advisor Sergey Lapin has admitted his countryman could hang up his gloves. "Oleksandr has spent his entire career proving who he is. At this stage, the question is no longer what Usyk owes anyone. The question is what kind of event can be built?" Lapin told Snabbare.
"A serious offer, backed by serious people, the right commercial structure, broadcasters and site fee support, is how the biggest fights in the world are made. If the numbers and the opportunity make sense for everyone, then everything is possible. We are open to serious business, not noise."
Decision Expected by End of Week
Lapin emphasized that nothing personal or emotional will prevent a fight with Kabayel, but a lack of serious commercial structure could make it difficult to justify. "If the right opportunity presents itself, the fight can happen. If not, there are other paths and other major opportunities available."
"Oleksandr has earned the right to carefully evaluate every option. We are speaking with different parties and considering all opportunities. A decision will be made by the end of this week, and everyone will know where we stand. Clarity is coming very soon."
Fans May Have Seen Last of Usyk
Lapin added a poignant note: "But one thing people should remember: when a fighter has achieved everything Oleksandr has achieved, every appearance becomes special. It is possible that fans have already seen him in the ring for the last time. Or maybe there is still one more chapter left. We will know very soon."
Usyk's controversial victory over Verhoeven has divided opinion, with many questioning the referee's decision to stop the fight after the bell. The Ukrainian remains undefeated as a professional, holding multiple heavyweight titles.
