Oleksandr Usyk Keeps Future Open, Eyes Return to Undisputed Status Despite Belt Changes

 No Mandatory Pressure, Full Strategic Freedom

Now, without a pressing mandatory challenger tied to any organization, Usyk and his team have rare breathing room in a heavyweight division that has been chaotic, political, and unpredictable.

This flexibility could allow them to assess:

• Whether Wardley remains the priority

• Whether a massive trilogy fight with Tyson Fury is inevitable

• Whether Dubois or another top contender resurfaces

• Or whether a new commercial opportunity emerges in Riyadh or London

Notably, Usyk already shut down speculation linking him to rising phenom Moses Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs), with Lapin stating they have no interest in fast-tracking the 19-year-old into that level of danger.

Aging… But Still the Best

Usyk turns 39 early next year, but remains undefeated, uncontroversially No. 1 at heavyweight, and still the most technically complete big man in the world. While the division is rich with talent Wardley’s rise, Dubois’ improvements, Fury’s uncertain future, and Anthony Joshua’s resurgence—none have proven they can clearly surpass the Ukrainian great.

The clock may be ticking, but Usyk continues to control his own narrative.

Whether he chooses Wardley, Fury, Dubois, or a left-field opponent in 2026, one thing is clear: Usyk intends to become undisputed again—and believes it’s only a matter of time.