Usyk’s Promoter Dismisses Wilder Fight
Alexander Krassyuk, the promoter for Oleksandr Usyk, has dismissed the prospect of a fight with Deontay Wilder unless the former WBC champion can offer a substantial incentive. Even with Usyk currently holding all four heavyweight titles, Krassyuk asserts that Wilder must bring something of significance to the table to attract Usyk’s interest for a potential matchup in 2026.
Wilder’s Future Plans
This declaration coincides with remarks from Wilder’s manager, Shelly Finkel, who indicated that Wilder aims to face either Usyk or Anthony Joshua next year, following one more preparatory bout this year. Finkel noted that the plan includes a fight before 2024, aiming at a major showdown in 2026.
Krassyuk’s Perspective on the Heavyweight Division
When questioned about Wilder’s relevance in the heavyweight division and his chances of facing the undisputed champion, Krassyuk didn’t hold back. He emphasized that while Wilder once commanded attention due to holding a title, he is now part of an older generation alongside notable fighters like Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. Krassyuk believes the division is shifting towards new talent, naming up-and-coming fighters such as Joe Parker, Moses Itauma, Daniel Dubois, and Agit Kabayel as the future leaders of the heavyweight scene.
Wilder’s Recent Struggles
Wilder, who dominated the WBC title for five years, has seen his career falter after consecutive losses to Tyson Fury, prompting ongoing speculation about his standing in boxing. Krassyuk made it clear that Usyk is focused on these emerging fighters instead of looking back at Wilder’s career. He acknowledged his reluctance to keep an eye on Wilder’s latest bout against Tyrrell Herndon, stating,
“I did not follow,”
underscoring that Wilder is not on Usyk’s agenda.
Gratitude to Fans and Future Aspirations
In a show of appreciation, Krassyuk thanked the British fans for their unwavering support, expressing gratitude for their kind words directed at Usyk in recent weeks. The future remains ambiguous for Wilder in terms of reclaiming another title, especially as Usyk has signaled aspirations beyond heavyweight glory, possibly eyeing a return to cruiserweight competitiveness.
Potential Bridgerweight Showdown
Interestingly, Wilder has previously contemplated the possibility of dropping to 200 pounds to pursue titles across weight classes. With the introduction of bridgerweight as a new category filling the gap between cruiserweight and heavyweight, it raises the possibility of an unusual scenario where Usyk and Wilder could eventually face off for the bridgerweight championship, highlighting the unpredictable nature of boxing.
