Oleksandr Usyk has already taken his place among boxing’s greats, having become an undisputed champion not once but three times.
After navigating a series of arduous challenges at cruiserweight, he claimed all four world titles by defeating Murat Gassiev in the World Boxing Super Series final in 2018.
His move to heavyweight brought him two more sets of the belts after dethroning the “Gypsy King” Tyson Fury, then excelling again with a knockout win over Daniel Dubois this year.
The 38-year-old now holds three of the heavyweight titles, having vacated the WBO strap. The decision promoted Fabio Wardley from interim to full champion, placing his name alongside Fury, Dubois, Anthony Joshua, Lennox Lewis and the many other British heavyweights to have held a world title.
Incredibly, Usyk may not be done chasing undisputed status. Speaking at the recent WBC convention –– joined on stage by fellow boxing royalty Roberto Durán and Katie Taylor –– he hinted that he will pursue the sport’s ultimate prize once more.
“Listen, I have four belts, now three. People say, ‘Hey, you’re not undisputed champion.’ Okay, that is temporary.”
Usyk, 24-0 (15 KOs), has been linked to a title defence against the emerging superstar Moses Itauma, while unbeaten German contender Agit Kabayel has also put his name forward. Wardley, fresh off a career-best win over Joseph Parker, could yet receive the call, and Fury has not ruled out facing Usyk for a third time.
A crossover fight against two-weight UFC champion Alex Pereira has also been rumoured.
