Usyk Aiming For A US Promoter – What’s Next?

With the shift to American market, Deontay Wilder has emerged as the frontrunner for Usyk’s next fight in late April or early May 2026. Usyk personally named Wilder as his primary target, calling him “one of the great heavyweights of the last 10 years.” Wilder confirmed in mid-December that “talks are going very well.” Wilder has suggested a “two-fight plan” for 2026, potentially taking a “warm-up” bout against Derek Chisora before the Usyk mega-fight in May. Usyk’s team insists the 38-year-old has at least two more years left. 

“We’re working on a multi-fight deal. Oleksandr’s not done. Two more years, at least,” Klimas said

Alternatives

If Usyk signs with Top Rank, the most logical opponent is Jared Anderson. He is touted as the “next great American heavyweight,” so Anderson represents a big US name. While Anderson suffered a setback against Martin Bakole in 2024, he remains one of the most recognizable young American heavyweights. For Usyk, beating the top American prospect on an ESPN-headlined card would immediately solidify his brand with casual U.S. viewers. However, for the promoter, it’s a high-risk gamble; if Usyk outclasses Anderson, it could derail the career of the most promising U.S. heavyweight talent.

For a massive event in Los Angeles, Andy Ruiz Jr. is perhaps the strongest alternative to Wilder. As the first heavyweight champion of Mexican descent, Ruiz commands a massive and loyal West Coast fan base. Even though Ruiz has been less active recently—fighting to a draw with Jarrell Miller in late 2024—a matchup with Usyk would be an easy sell for a Pay-Per-View audience.