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For Deontay Wilder, The Oleksandr Usyk Fight Is A ‘No Brainer’

Originally posted on Fights Around The World
By Joshua Ben Joseph | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 1:00 PM ET

Deontay Wilder (43-4-1, 42 KOs) has a four-letter goal in mind, one that starts with a U and ends with a K.

‘The Bronze Bomber’ is making a comeback after a yearlong hiatus to take on journeyman Tyrrell Herndon (24-5, 15 KOs) at Charles Koch Arena in Wichita, Kansas, on June 27. With barely two days remaining for the fight, Wilder already has plans to get to the pedestals of the heavyweight division once again, with a potential showdown against the undisputed champion, Oleksandr Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs), paving the way.

In conversation with the Ring Magazine, Wilder revealed that he is looking to bag a Usyk fight in 2026.

“If Usyk is still around when the time comes, it’s a no-brainer. I think it would be amazing. I’ll fight him if he’s ready. But this year is off the table for a lot of people, for both of us,” he said. “Next year could be full of surprises. He’s said before that he wanted to fight me, and I hope he still feels the same way. What he’s done has been great, and I am happy for him.”

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Usyk is currently gearing up for his rematch against IBF champion Daniel Dubois in July. While Wilder is hopeful of Usyk’s victory, he believes that his “dangerous” demeanor is the only reason why Usyk got the opportunities that he didn’t.

Wilder, who will turn 40 this year, is training hard to ensure that he is in top shape, not only for the Usyk fight, but also to take over the heavyweight division.

“I’m here to make the heavyweight division exciting again. You need controversy in boxing, and here I am to stir it up again,” he said. “When you have a strong Deontay Wilder, physically, mentally, emotionally, it’s hard for anybody to be able to beat me, or build the guts and nerves to fight me.”

“I Was Rooting For Usyk”

Meanwhile, he has been an ardent fan of Usyk’s performances. In fact, according to Wilder, he had his fingers crossed for Usyk’s victory during his fight against Tyson Fury.

“I was rooting for Usyk to beat Fury,” Wilder said during the same interview. “I knew his capabilities and how skilled he was. I was telling people before the first fight that Usyk would win based on his style. I was picking my side, and it had nothing to do with my rivalry with Fury. And after he beat him the first time, I knew it would be easier the second time.”

This article first appeared on Fights Around The World and was syndicated with permission.

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