Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to vacate his heavyweight titles has fueled speculation about who will share the ring with him one last time. According to boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, that answer may already be known.
Usyk recently revealed that he plans to retire after one final fight, ending one of the most accomplished careers in modern boxing.
Hearn points to Deontay Wilder as Usyk’s farewell fight
Speaking to reporters before Saturday’s DAZN card headlined by Xander Zayas and Jaron “Boots” Ennis, Hearn said he expects Usyk to face former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.
“I think he’s accomplished everything,”
“He’s earned the right to do whatever he wants.”
Hearn then shared the matchup he believes is next.
“So he’s gonna fight Wilder next, I believe.”
He also suggested financial considerations could play a role in Usyk’s final decision.
“He’ll go all business, and he’ll say, ‘Where’s the most amount of money I can get for that fight?”
Usyk appears ready to avoid another mandatory title run
Hearn also questioned whether Usyk has any interest in navigating another cycle of mandatory title defenses and negotiations.
“Does he want to be put under the pressure of an ordered fight and twenty eight day negotiation and then the purse fee, and then you have to take part in the fight in the next ninety days?”
“Does he wanna go to Germany and fight Kabayel?”
Since back-to-back victories over Tyson Fury in 2024, Usyk has faced criticism from some fans and sanctioning bodies over the pace of his heavyweight schedule. His exhibition with Rico Verhoeven also drew mixed reactions, adding more attention to his future plans.
If Hearn’s prediction proves accurate, Usyk’s final bout would see him face another former heavyweight champion in Wilder. It would also give the Ukrainian one last opportunity to close his career against one of the biggest names of his era.