Will Oleksandr Usyk still be the top heavyweight champion by the end of 2026, or will a new name take over the division?
Usyk will face Rico Verhoeven on June 23 at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. The undefeated Ukrainian remains one of the division’s top names, but activity and age always become part of the discussion in a busy heavyweight class.
WBO champion Fabio Wardley will defend his title against former unified champion Daniel Dubois on May 9 in Manchester, England. This fight could quickly change the picture if Dubois regains a belt or Wardley strengthens his position.
Murat Gassiev holds the WBA title and remains in the mix after the last fight in December 2025. Interim WBC titleholder Agit Kabayel is undefeated and pushing for a bigger opportunity.
Former champions are still hovering around the title race. Deontay Wilder remains a dangerous puncher, while Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua continue to attract attention when discussing future fights.
Other contenders are also trying to break through. Frank Sanchez is scheduled to face Richard Torrez Jr. to meet on June 23. Bakhodir Jalolov, Filip Hrgovic, Lawrence Okolie and Richard Riakporhe are also trying to force their way into the title picture.
The heavyweight division changes quickly when the punches land. Usyk still looks like the safest choice today, but one upset can change everything overnight.
Click here to subscribe to our FREE newsletter
Related Boxing News:
Last updated on 2026/04/26 at 20:34
