Usyk Now Wants to Fight Until He’s 41
By Eddie Sanchez
Oleksandr Usyk is aiming to return in the first half of 2026, with the winner of Saturday’s Joseph Parker-Fabio Wardley fight the likely frontrunner for a shot at the undisputed, world heavyweight champion, according to Usyk’s advisor, Serhii Lapin.
Whoever wins in London will become the WBO mandatory challenger for Usyk, one of four titles he currently holds in addition to The Ring’s heavyweight championship. The WBO mandatory defense was ordered in July but was delayed due to Usyk’s back injury.
Lapin said Usyk’s recovery is “going great” after completing a recent rehabilitation camp. “He feels good and is in excellent shape,” Lapin added.
Usyk, 38, was initially noncommittal about fighting again after stopping Daniel Dubois for a second time in July. However, last week he indicated plans to continue boxing until age 41.
Lapin estimates Usyk may have around five more fights remaining but doesn’t foresee a third bout with Tyson Fury. Fury has been mentioned for a trilogy fight after losing twice to Usyk in 2024, but Lapin sees little reason for it. “Theoretically, it’s an interesting option, but for whom?” Lapin said. “If boxing fans truly support it, then maybe. However, in my opinion, that chapter is already closed.”
Usyk (24-0, 15 KO) also made headlines when he appeared to rule out a future fight with rising star Moses Itauma. Lapin, however, said the matchup is possible, just not at this time.
Itauma, 20, remains unproven at the top level. He recently scored a first-round TKO over Dillian Whyte in August and is considered a promising talent. Still, he would need to defeat a legitimate top-10 heavyweight before facing Usyk.
“I wouldn’t say he doesn’t want to fight Itauma,” Lapin said. “He’s a promising fighter, and his team has done a good job bringing him to this level and ranking. But if we analyze the heavyweight division, besides Usyk, there are plenty of top fighters.
About The Author
