Oleksandr Usyk Reveals Final Three-Fight Plan Before Retirement
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has revealed the three fights he hopes will close out his legendary career, with a mix of crossover intrigue and major heavyweight clashes.
Usyk confirmed that he plans to have just three more bouts before retiring from professional boxing. The first of those fights has already been announced and will see the Ukrainian star face kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven in a crossover contest that has generated huge interest among combat sports fans.
Verhoeven is widely regarded as one of the most dominant heavyweights in kickboxing history and currently reigns as the long-time champion in Glory Kickboxing. The bout represents a rare clash between elite fighters from two different striking sports and could draw attention from both boxing and kickboxing audiences.
Heavyweight Title Picture Could Shape Second Fight
After the Verhoeven fight, Usyk says he intends to face the winner of the heavyweight showdown between Fabio Wardleyand Daniel Dubois.
Both fighters are rising forces in the heavyweight division, and a victory for either man would likely position them for a major world title opportunity. Dubois has already shared the ring with Usyk once before, challenging him for the unified titles in 2023 in a bout that ended with a ninth-round stoppage win for the Ukrainian champion.
Wardley, meanwhile, has been building momentum with an unbeaten record and knockout power that has made him one of Britain’s most exciting heavyweight contenders.
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Trilogy with Tyson Fury on Usyk’s Mind
The final fight Usyk wants before retirement is a trilogy clash with Tyson Fury.
Usyk and Fury have already been involved in one of the biggest rivalries in modern heavyweight boxing, with their fights helping determine the undisputed champion of the division. A third meeting would likely be one of the most anticipated bouts in the sport if both fighters remain active and competitive in the coming years.
If the plan unfolds as Usyk hopes, the Ukrainian great could end his career with a unique crossover bout, a clash with the next generation of heavyweights, and a blockbuster trilogy against Fury.
For a fighter who has already conquered cruiserweight and heavyweight boxing, such a final run would be a fitting conclusion to one of the most accomplished careers of the modern era.
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