Full Breakdown
Oleksandr Usyk Nears Farewell Fight with Deontay Wilder in the United States
7/8/2026, 1:49:06 AM
Usyk and Wilder Enter Advanced Negotiations for Farewell Bout
Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is in advanced talks to stage his final professional fight against former WBC champion Deontay Wilder. Negotiations target a U.S. venue later this year, but no contract has been finalized.
Background: Title Vacations and Opponent Search
In late May Usyk relinquished the IBF, WBA (Super) and WBC heavyweight belts, announcing a single-fight retirement plan. Initial speculation linked him to a third clash with Tyson Fury, a rematch with Rico Verhoeven, or a bout against the winner of the Dubois-Wardley contest. By June, focus shifted to a U.S. farewell event, with Wilder emerging as the preferred opponent.
Key Figures
Usyk, 39, holds a 25-0 record with 16 knockouts and is a two-time undisputed champion. Wilder, 40, is a former WBC champion with a 45-4-1 record and 43 knockouts. Usyk’s team director is Sergey Lapin; Wilder’s manager is Shelly Finkel. Zuffa Boxing, a new promotion backed by UFC president Dana White and Saudi investors, is being considered as a partner.
Data
Usyk’s career totals stand at 25 wins (16 by KO) and zero losses; Wilder’s totals are 45 wins (43 by KO), four losses and one draw. Both fighters are in their late thirties, and Wilder’s most recent bout was a split-decision win over Derek Chisora on April 4.
Official Statements & Responses
Usyk’s camp, represented by team director Sergey Lapin, confirmed Wilder as the chosen opponent and highlighted the bout’s “significant potential from a sporting, media and international perspective.” Lapin added that talks with Zuffa Boxing are at a senior level, though no agreement has been signed. Wilder’s manager Shelly Finkel said his client would accept the fight if offered.
Criticism and Opposition
Coverage notes that Wilder is “well past his peak,” raising questions about the competitive balance of a matchup between an unbeaten champion and a veteran whose power has declined. Some observers argue the fight may prioritize commercial appeal over sporting merit.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Usyk has already stated that he sees Deontay Wilder as the opponent for his last dance,” — Sergey Lapin, Usyk’s team director
- “If Deontay is offered a fight with Usyk, he would take it.” — Shelly Finkel, Wilder’s manager
- “We are in direct discussions with Zuffa Boxing at the highest level. At this stage, no agreements have been signed,” — Sergey Lapin
- “Zuffa Boxing is being considered as one of the potential partners for a major international event.” — Sergey Lapin
What’s Next
Both camps aim to finalize promotional terms and secure a venue before year-end. Once a partner is confirmed, a fight date will be announced, positioning the bout as a marquee U.S. heavyweight event.
