Oleksandr Usyk says his next move is clear: he wants Deontay Wilder. The unified heavyweight champion has openly declared the former WBC titleholder as his preferred opponent, confirming Wilder is his “first option” for a 2025 return.
Usyk, 38, has not fought since July, when he stopped Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium to reclaim undisputed status. He later vacated the WBO belt, allowing Fabio Wardley to rise from interim to full champion.
Speaking to Boxing King Media, Usyk explained why Wilder tops his list.
“I continue fighting next year. I want to fight Deontay Wilder. I think it’s interesting,” he said.
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Wilder, long known for his knockout power, has struggled for form since his trilogy with Tyson Fury. The 40-year-old suffered stoppage losses to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang before returning in June with a routine win over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon.
Still, Usyk believes Wilder remains a credible and high-profile challenge.
“He is a world champion guy. A very famous and strong guy,” Usyk said.
“One of the great heavyweights of the last 10 years. I spoke with my team and said he is the first option.”
With mandatory challengers across the heavyweight divisions already locked into upcoming fights, Usyk may have a narrow window to secure a voluntary bout. The Ukrainian, who has beaten Fury, Anthony Joshua and Dubois, has previously said he intends to fight for only two more years as he eyes another return to the ring in 2026.