Oleksandr Usyk confirms Dana White talks as two options emerge

Oleksandr Usyk has been at the top of the heavyweight division in recent years, holding the undisputed crown twice. He decided to vacate the WBO title, which led to Fabio Wardley being elevated before Daniel Dubois won that title from him. Usyk was most recently seen stopping Rico Verhoeven. The Ukrainian has spoken to Fight Hype TV, revealing talks with Dana White, and teasing two options on the table for him.

Oleksandr Usyk vacates heavyweight titles

“Friends, good afternoon everyone,” said Usyk in Ukrainian in a video posted to his social media accounts. “Today is Friday. The weather is beautiful and it’s a good day to say that I want to vacate all the belts I currently hold. I want to make them available so the guys who are next in line can fight for them. Friends, I’m leaving the belts, but I’m not leaving sport because I have my last dance. I want to thank everyone. I have great respect for all [title awarding] organizations. I want to thank everyone and say there’s more to come. Glory to God for everything. Glory to Ukraine.”

Usyk confirmed in a separate post on X that he is indeed vacating the WBA, IBF, and WBC world titles ahead of what could be his last fight. Murat Gassiev has since been promoted to the full WBA champion and defeated Peter Kadiru. The IBF have ordered their No. 1-ranked heavyweight, Frank Sanchez, to face Moses Itauma, who is scheduled to fight Filip Hrgovic on August 29. Agit Kabayel has been elevated to the full WBC champion, completing the current heavyweight picture.

Oleksandr Usyk confirms Dana White talks

Talking to Fight Hype TV, Usyk confirmed talks with Dana White:

“Maybe it’s good opportunity for me if Dana, who boss Zuffa to work about this organization. Why not? Why not? It’s new belt, new opportunity. It’s good.” 

“I think I know my team speaks with Dana. I have met with Dana. Now we have two options for what we do next. But I have time now with my family, with my wife.”

It remains to be seen what comes next for Usyk, but the Deontay Wilder fight has been heavily rumoured and looks the most likely.

Featured Image Credit:

Mark Robinson – Matchroom Boxing