Usyk said his current plan is three more fights, starting with Rico Verhoeven on May 23 in Egypt, followed by two more before retirement. When asked if that timeline is completely final, Usyk left himself room to maneuver.
“I said I have three fights. Rico and two more, and I’m done,” Usyk told DAZN Boxing.
“And that’s it?” Oladipo asked.
“Yes,” Usyk said.
“No number 4 and number 5? Is that 100%?” Oladipo asked.
“Not 100%,” Usyk said.
That answer keeps the door open at a time when the heavyweight division has several potential paydays waiting. Daniel Dubois returned as a big name after beating Fabio Wardley, while Fury remains the opponent Usyk continues to bring out in public.
“Not 100%. When I say 100%, I’m not going back because if I say, ‘Not going back. Listen, I’m going back because.’ No. Three fights and I’m done,” Usyk said.
Money is another reason Usyk stopped short of making a firm retirement promise. Turki Alalshikh had already floated David Benavidez as a possible heavyweight opponent for Usyk in 2027. Benavidez became a unified cruiserweight champion earlier this month with his knockout victory over Gilberto Ramirez, and a jump to heavyweight is already being discussed.
Collecting another massive payday against Tyson Fury, who Usyk refers to as “Greedy Belly,” for what could be his third fight, then returning for another Riyadh-backed gold mine against someone like Benavidez, could make it difficult to stick with retirement. These are the types of fights that can quickly change retirement plans when the heavyweight division still offers enormous money.
“I’m not going to retire 100%!” 😮
Is @usikaa‘s 3-fight plan CHANGED? 👀
🎟️ Buy USYK vs RICO HERE –> https://t.co/FoiaUucI53#UsykRico | Glory In Giza | 23 May | @Ring Magazine pic.twitter.com/FMPt5kzbje
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) May 12, 2026
