Oleksandr Usyk is still a top target for a big-punching heavyweight he has already stopped.
Usyk has not yet lost to any man in either the cruiserweight or heavyweight divisions. More than that, he is just one of two fighters, the other being Evander Holyfield, to have cleaned up in both weight classes to become undisputed.
His closest fight was his most recent one against Tyson Fury in May – a split decision victory following a statement round in which he seriously hurt the Brit. Aside from that, he has rarely looked in trouble but was put on the canvas when defending his world titles back in August 2023.
Daniel Dubois administered that shot, but it was immediately ruled to be low – not that everyone in the sport agreed, not least the Brit himself.
Dubois – who is now IBF Champion after Usyk vacated the belt – recently spoke to rtfight.com about his desire to have another go at the Ukrainian
“I need to get back in the ring and right the wrong. Usyk and I definitely have unfinished business, and it’s part of my climb to the top. I was in a dark place before, but now I’m stepping into the light, and I need to settle the score.”
He then referenced his next fight, a first defence of his belt against countryman Anthony Joshua in front of a record 96, 000 people at Wembley on September 21.
“A win over Joshua will elevate me to the top. It will certainly make me the king.”
In order for the rematch to have a chance of happening Usyk will also need to come through his next bout – a rematch with Tyson Fury in December – although he has been honest that only fights with Fury and Joshua interest him moving forward.
