Usyk Targets Wilder for High-Stakes Heavyweight Clash

Unified heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk has set his sights on a high-profile bout against former WBC titleholder Deontay Wilder, declaring the American his top choice for a 2025 matchup.

The Ukrainian superstar, who recently defended his titles against Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July, told Boxing King Media: I want to fight Deontay Wilder next. It's an intriguing challenge against one of the division's most iconic figures.

Declining Force or Dangerous Test?

Wilder's recent form raises questions about the matchup's competitiveness. The 40-year-old Alabama native suffered consecutive losses to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang before scoring a low-impact victory over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon in June. Despite this slump, Usyk remains impressed by Wilder's legacy:

He's a former world champion with tremendous power. One of the defining heavyweights of this era. My team agrees he's the ideal first option.

Title Landscape Complicates Matchup

Usyk's decision to vacate his WBO belt rather than face mandatory challenger Fabio Wardley could pave the way for a Wilder showdown. However, scheduling pressures loom as other sanctioning bodies advance their title pictures:

• WBC: Interim champ Agit Kabayel faces Damian Knyba on January 10
• IBF: Richard Torrez Jr vs Frank Sanchez ordered as final eliminator
• WBA: Regular champion Kubrat Pulev meets Murat Gassiev on December 12

The 38-year-old Usyk, who became boxing's first undisputed heavyweight champion in 25 years by defeating Tyson Fury, has hinted at retiring within two years. This potential Wilder clash could mark a pivotal moment in the Olympic gold medalist's storied career.