Who Could Be Oleksandr Usyk’s Next Opponent in 2025?

Oleksandr Usyk, the unified heavyweight champion, is arguably one of the most skilful fighters. His legacy only grows. As word spreads of his historic triumphs against Tyson Fury in 2024, the burning question has now begun circling. Who stands against Usyk in 2025? 

From well-known fighters to new competitors, there is a small selection of fighters that can fill this list. Fans and analysts are speculating about the possible matchups, and many are eager to place bets on these bouts. Those interested can check out fast payout online casino sites for tips and more convenient betting. These casinos are known for super swift payout rates, which allow users to reinvest or cash out without any waiting. With the growing craze of online betting, it’s important to choose easily accessible options so you can wager more safely. 

Oleksandr Usyk: Strongest Contestant for His Next Fight

Top Contenders for Oleksandr Usyk

Oleksandr Usyk is perhaps one of the most challenging opponents to stand against. In the heavyweight division, he currently has one of the highest punch accuracy ratings at a whopping 42%. Not to mention, he is also nimble and hard to hit. That said there are fights left for the Ukrainian, and he recently revealed that he has two fights left before retirement.

Winner of Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker

Undoubtedly a fight that everyone would watch is Usyk vs. the winner of Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker, which would be for undisputed glory. The boxing world waited over 20 years to see an undisputed clash at heavyweight and it was well worth the wait with Usyk prevailing against Tyson Fury in a clash full of drama and intrigue. They faced each other once again on December 21, 2024, with the Ukrainian confirming his dominance in the rematch retaining his unified heavyweight titles.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Usyk addressed his future and said: “I will fight who will win, Joseph Parker, Daniel Dubois, no problem.”

Potential Challengers Ready to Test Oleksandr Usyk

Even though Usyk may be one of the legendary fighters, a new rising star could prove to be a worthy challenger at a different weight.

Jai Opetaia

Usyk has mentioned he could be tempted back to cruiserweight, making Jai Opetaia a viable option for the 38-year-old Ukrainian southpaw. The Aussie fighter could also move up in weight if he achieves all he desires at cruiserweight. A potential Opetaia-Usyk fight would be a chess match full of intrigue. Both move their feet exceptionally well and pick their punches impressively. The boxing world would surely tune in for this one.

Bookmakers’ Predictions for Usyk’s 2025 Opponent

Bookmakers understandably have the winner of Parker-Dubois as the favourite next opponent and Usyk has confirmed he’s ready to face the winner of that fight.

Unexpected Names That Could Enter the Conversation

Outside of Opetaia, it’s difficult to see anyone being ready to face the Ukrainian in the next two fights. Usyk further revealed to Sky Sports: “I think two years, one and a half [left in boxing],” he said. “I feel great myself. I feel I have two fights to prepare [for], not more. Just two.”

Will Oleksandr Usyk Move to a New Weight Class?

Usyk has been so successful in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions that speculation has arisen about a potential return to cruiserweight. Becoming undisputed again in the division would be appealing, but with ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez, Opetaia, and Badou Jack holding the belts, that possibility seems unlikely in the next two years. However, a return for a super fight against Opetaia would capture widespread attention. The bigger question is whether Usyk would be willing to drop back down in weight at 38.

In a recent interview, Usyk also hinted he could retire from boxing and pursue a career in football. So maybe, he is going to be seen on the football pitch soon.

How Politics and Promotions Could Shape the Fight

Business and politics are, as always in boxing, intertwined with matchmaking. It is clear that Usyk’s next move will be influenced by his promotional team, his existing contract obligations, and the willingness of major networks to fund certain fights. It looks certain it will be Dubois or Parker next but who will step up for Usyk’s final fight?

In 2025, the involvement of promoters like Eddie Hearn, Frank Warren, Bob Arum and Alex Krassyuk in addition to Turki Alalshikh will have more control over how Usyk’s career will unfold.