Oleksandr Usyk says he plans to fight until he is 41. That number is far from definitive for the 38-year-old undisputed heavyweight champion Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs). That could all change depending on injuries and how his career goes.
Fury trilogy remains on the table
Usyk’s return to the ring has been delayed due to a back injury. He says that he is in “negotiations” for a fight, but he does not reveal who that fighter is. It will not be Moses Itauma. It will be interesting to see if Usyk picks someone we least suspect to use as a tune-up.
A trilogy match between Tyson Fury and Usyk would be fun. ‘The Gypsy King’ Fury is still bitter about his two losses, complaining and wanting revenge.
Seeing them fight again will attract a lot of attention, with Fury stomach-churning 24/7 about how he got a raw deal in the first two fights. He would be play the victim angle, wants fans to feel sorry for him. Even if he gave the business in the first fight, he is so rich now. He is over $160 million, and maybe even more.
WBO mandatory: Parker or Wardley?
The mandatory that Oleksandr needs to satisfy at the moment is the WBO against Joseph Parker. As he fights WBA interim champion Fabio Wardley on October 25, it is possible that the WBO mandatory situation could change names after that contest. Of the two, Wardley would be more vulnerable due to his primitive slugging style.
Usyk expands his career plan
“I will fight until I am 41. Then I will build a sports academy. I will train there and train others,” says Oleksandr Usyk via Sky Sports Boxing. “Next year,” he said, “and, God willing, I will win.”
“I can’t say exactly who because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name,” Usyk said.
It’s understandable why Usyk would want to fight another two to three years until he’s 41. He makes so much money with every fight. The best paydays for Usyk will be against these guys:
- Tyson Fury
- Anthony Joshua
- Moses It will hurt
- Joseph Parker
- Fabio Wardley
Why Itauma must wait
“No, I won’t fight Itauma (next). He’s young – always teasing me. And he himself said he doesn’t hit old people!” Usyk said about Moses Itauma.
Since 2015, Olly Campbell has brought readers a clear ringside perspective and a solid voice on boxing’s biggest nights.
Last updated on 17/10/2025
