Growing Anticipation for Usyk vs. Wilder
The anticipation for a bout between Oleksandr Usyk and Deontay Wilder is growing, as Usyk’s manager, Egis Klimas, has stated that the fight is “very likely” to happen in the near future. While Usyk, the reigning unified heavyweight champion, has enjoyed significant success, achieving undisputed champion status twice in the last two years, Wilder’s recent performance paints a different picture—his record stands at 2-4 since 2020.
Usyk’s Recent Achievements
Usyk last entered the ring in July, where he defeated Daniel Dubois to reclaim his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion. Following that victory, he had been scheduled to fight Joseph Parker, the WBO interim champion, but took a hiatus to recover from an injury. During this break, Parker was halted by Fabio Wardley, which initially created a pathway for Wardley to challenge Usyk. However, Usyk opted to vacate his WBO belt and is now eyeing a voluntary title defense, which is likely to be against Wilder.
Negotiations and Potential Venues
In remarks made to The National, Klimas elaborated on the ongoing negotiations, revealing that talks with Wilder’s team are already underway. They are considering venues in Las Vegas or Los Angeles, with potential dates for the fight set for late April or early May.
“This is an exciting matchup,” Klimas remarked, acknowledging Wilder as a significant name that Usyk has yet to face. “Wilder remains in good fighting condition, and given that this bout could take place in the United States adds to its appeal.”
Wilder’s Recent Performance
Deontay Wilder’s most recent bout took place in June, where he secured a victory against Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, marking a return to form after suffering two consecutive defeats at the hands of Zhilei Zhang and Joseph Parker. The 40-year-old American had previously held the WBC title from 2015 until 2020, before losing it in a series of fights against Tyson Fury, a title that Usyk ultimately claimed in 2024, further cementing his legacy as a heavyweight champion.
Future Prospects for Usyk
Klimas also mentioned the possibility of Usyk participating in the Riyadh Season, hinting at ongoing discussions involving a group from the United States, but confirmed that nothing is finalized on that front yet. Usyk’s future appears bright despite speculation regarding his age, as Klimas reassured fans that Usyk feels strong and is not ready to retire just yet.
“He believes he can continue for at least the next two years,” he affirmed, emphasizing Usyk’s readiness to take on new challenges.
As discussions progress, the boxing world eagerly awaits confirmation of this high-profile fight, which promises to showcase the talents of two of the strongest heavyweights in the sport today.
