Usyk Targets Wilder for Next Boxing Match
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has identified Deontay Wilder as his preferred opponent for his next boxing match. Following his victory over Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July, Usyk solidified his status as a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion.
Usyk’s Career Highlights
At 38, Usyk has achieved remarkable success in the boxing world. After defeating Dubois, he opted to vacate his WBO title. This decision led to Fabio Wardley being promoted from interim champion to the full titleholder.
The Wilder Matchup
In a recent interview with Boxing King Media, Usyk expressed his intention to fight Wilder next year, emphasizing the excitement of such a matchup. “I want to fight Deontay Wilder. I think it’s interesting,” he stated.
Wilder’s Recent Performance
Wilder, aged 40, is known for his previous reign as WBC world champion and for being one of boxing’s most feared punchers. However, his performance has declined since his trilogy with Tyson Fury. He suffered consecutive stoppage losses to Joseph Parker in 2023 and Zhilei Zhang in 2024.
- June 2024: Wilder returned to the ring after a year-long hiatus, securing a seventh-round stoppage victory over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon.
- Notable Decline: Wilder’s stock has diminished significantly due to recent defeats.
Usyk’s Perspective on Wilder
Despite these setbacks, Usyk continues to regard Wilder as a prominent figure in heavyweight boxing. “He is a world champion guy. A very famous and strong guy,” Usyk remarked, recognizing Wilder as one of the significant heavyweights of the past decade. He confirmed that he discussed this potential fight with his team, labeling Wilder as the “first option.”
As the boxing world awaits confirmation of the match, fans are excited about the prospects of Usyk and Wilder facing off in what could be a highly anticipated bout.
