Oleksandr Usyk wants Deontay Wilder fight in 2026
Oleksandr Usyk, the unified heavyweight champion, has challenged former champion Deontay Wilder to a fight.
Following a six-month medical suspension, Usyk is planning his comeback to the ring in 2026. Usyk last fought in July 2025, winning by KO against Daniel Dubois.
And having defeated Tyson Fury and Antony Joshua, the champion now has a limited pool of high-profile opponents to choose from.
Wilder secured a victory this year, following consecutive defeats against Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang. This fight could help him make a comeback and revive his championship goals.
Some may feel Wilder isn’t the most legitimate title contender, as Wardley is the mandatory challenger for Usyk per the WBO.
After defeating Joseph Parker for the interim title, Fabio Wardley was elevated to world champion status after Usykvacated the belt. Moses Itauma, another possible opponent for Usyk, currently holds WBO Intercontinental and Commonwealth heavyweight titles.
Both bouts are still interesting for Usyk’s legacy, as they are two of the best of the next generation of boxing talent. Given that Usyk is considered among the all-time greats, defeating him would be a significant accomplishment for their careers as well.
However, boxing is driven by money, and the Wilder fight is expected to be the more financially rewarding bout.
Usyk will be heavily tested against Wilder, a powerful knockout artist, as Usyk has not yet faced a puncher with Wilder’s power.
While Usyk is currently waiting for his next fight, he has been spotted attending boxing conferences and making appearances at various events.