Oleksandr Usyk provides major update on career plans

In July, Usyk restored his undisputed status by recouping the IBF world title from Daniel Dubois after the Ukrainian vacated the belt in 2024 to pursue a rematch with Tyson Fury.

Immediately after his victory, Usyk stated that he would first rest, before teasing another fight with either Fury, Anthony Joshua, or Derek Chisora, British opponents he has previously beaten.

Usyk recently called out Jake Paul for an MMA fight and indicated he was nearing the end of his boxing career, but has now revealed he intends to fight on into his 40s before giving back to his community.

He told UNN: “I will box until I am 41. And then I will build a Sports Academy and I will train there.

“My future is in Ukraine.”

Shortly after the Dubois fight, WBO interim title holder Joseph Parker and WBC equivalent Agit Kabayel were in the ring calling out the champion for a fight, with the former Usyk’s next mandatory challenger.

A reported back injury for Usyk led to a postponement in ordered talks with Parker, who has subsequently arranged a bout with WBA interim champion, Fabio Wardley, for Saturday, October 25, live on DAZN PPV.

Usyk is now back in training, stating: “I train every day. Yesterday morning I arrived and immediately went to the training hall. I train with the goal of entering the ring next year and, with God's help, winning."

Leigh Dawney/Queensberry

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Since moving up to heavyweight, Usyk has largely fought just once a year, with an exception made for Fury in 2024. The Olympic gold medallist will turn 41 in January 2028, giving Usyk time to add to his professional record of 24 wins from 24 fights.

Undisputed at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, Usyk became the first man to hold all four belts in boxing's blue-riband division. Despite making history, the 38-year-old’s credentials for all-time great status are thwarted by a lack of diversity in his opponents.

In his last six fights, he has faced the same three men twice - knocking out Dubois on two occasions, whilst beating Joshua and Fury via decisions.

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