Oleksandr Usyk looks set to make a shock return to the cruiserweight division, but promoter Frank Warren believes that the Ukrainian could still be tempted to remain at heavyweight for one fight.
Having claimed the undisputed crown at cruiserweight, Usyk moved into the heavyweight division in 2019 and went on to become the first undisputed heavyweight world champion of the four-belt era, defeating Tyson Fury in a legendary showdown in Riyadh.
Usyk then vacated the IBF title before defeating Fury for a second time, but became a two-time undisputed ruler when he won the IBF belt back in a rematch with Daniel Dubois in 2025.
A disappointing performance against Rico Verhoeven was followed by Usyk relinquishing his belts and he is now being linked to a return to the cruiserweight division; where a clash with David Benavidez may await.
Yet, in an interview with Sky Sports Boxing, Warren believes a potential third clash with Fury could convince the Ukrainian to swerve a cruiserweight return, should Fury defeat Anthony Joshua for the WBA (Super) heavyweight world title next month.
“Him [Usyk] and Tyson [Fury could fight again], if Tyson comes through [against Joshua]. Irrespective of the results, they were good fights to watch, they were exciting fights.
“I would have though so [that a trilogy will be extremely appealing to Usyk if Fury beats Joshua].”
Fury vs Joshua takes place on Friday, December 11, at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, with three heavyweight bouts now confirmed to be on the undercard.
