Oleksandr Usyk addresses Moses Itauma and retirement rumours

The future of Oleksandr Usyk remains a hot topic in the boxing world. Will the undisputed heavyweight want to defend all his titles against the WBO mandatory? The winner of Joseph Parker vs Fabio Wardley.

Could the Ukrainian seek a third fight with Tyson Fury or Anthony Joshua? He has also been linked with facing the undefeated KO artist Moses Itauma. When speaking to his own Ready to Fight website, Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) gave his honest reaction to an Itauma fight, teasing his plans for the future.

Oleksandr Usyk dismisses Moses Itauma showdown

Usyk was last in action on July 19, stopping Daniel Dubois in round five, to become the undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time.

Following this win, Usyk was ordered to face the WBO mandatory Parker. Due to an injury sustained by Usyk, the WBO granted an extension to the Ukrainian to delay the mandatory bout, which left Parker needing to find another dance partner, leading to the Wardley fight being made for October 25.

Speaking to Ready to Fight Usyk addressed the Itauma rumours when asked if he would fight the young contender:

“No, I won’t fight Itauma [in the next fight]. He’s young – always teasing me. And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas!” Usyk said.

“I can’t say who exactly because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name,” said Usyk regarding a potential next opponent.

The future for Usyk

The legacy of Oleksandr Usyk is undoubtedly secure, becoming undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time, alongside winning the undisputed crown at cruiserweight.

His majestic footwork and superior ring IQ have seen him reign supreme throughout his career. No matter the talent of Ituama, it’s difficult to see him defeating Usyk for the foreseeable future.

“I’ll fight until I’m 41,” Usyk told his Ready to Fight website. “Then I’ll build a sports academy. I’ll train there and train others.”