OLEKSANDR Usyk has revealed when he will return to the ring, but the reigning undisputed heavyweight champion remains tight-lipped on a potential opponent. Having already defeated Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois twice each, options are running dry for the Ukrainian master.
Joseph Parker has been lingering around for a while and takes on Fabio Wardley next weekend to stave off inactivity while he waits for the bat signal. Tricky German mover Agit Kabayel is also in the frame, although his style, while perfect for the purists, perhaps doesn’t translate to the Box Office.
This had led some to try and push forth the next generation, way ahead of schedule. Naturally, given his vicious finishes, British blaster Moses Itauma has been linked with Usyk. However, the veteran is ruling himself out of that meeting, based on age reasons.
“No, I won’t fight Itauma. He’s young — always teasing me,” Usyk told RT Fight.
“And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas. I can’t say who exactly, because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name.”
Usyk was playing his usual coy games when asked to divulge his plans. At first offering to make something up, the Itauma question prompted him into action.
“I arrived yesterday morning — I was at a training camp,” he revealed when asked about a ring return, which he confirmed will take place in 2026.
“God willing, I’ll win. I’ll fight until I’m 41. Then I’ll build a sports academy — I’ll train there and train others.”
It is believed that Saudi powerbroker Turki Al-Sheikh wants to pit Usyk in with Tyson Fury for a third meeting, seemingly until Fury can get over the line. That won’t be any easier seeing as the ‘Gypsy King’ is sticking rigidly to his retirement – for the time being.
Considering Itauma has now been ruled out and anyone else of note is tied up, who Usyk will face in 2026 remains a puzzle.
