Oleksandr Usyk’s next big move could shake up boxing history once again. The Ukrainian champion has hinted that he’s far from done — and may be plotting an unprecedented run to become a four-time undisputed world champion. But here’s where things get interesting: his current situation raises questions about legacy, age, and how much longer he can stay at the pinnacle of the sport.
During the opening ceremony of the WBC’s 63rd annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand, the 38-year-old fighter appeared in good spirits, confidently speaking about his future in the ring. Usyk, who still holds The Ring and unified heavyweight titles, made it clear that his passion remains alive — especially for one organization that continues to recognize his dominance.
“The green belt has always been my favorite,” Usyk said with a smile, referring to the prestigious WBC title. “I should have four belts. Some people say I’m not the undisputed champion anymore, but that’s only temporary.” Those words sparked plenty of speculation — is this simply confidence, or a quiet warning to the rest of the division?
Usyk’s decision to voluntarily vacate his WBO heavyweight belt last month sent shockwaves through the boxing world. His departure allowed rising British star Fabio Wardley — who had just outlasted Joseph Parker in a dramatic 11th-round stoppage — to be elevated from interim titleholder to full world champion. It was a surprising strategic move, and one that left fans debating whether Usyk is planning a calculated comeback or beginning to step back from the throne.
Adding another twist, Usyk firmly rejected the idea of facing fast-rising British contender Moses Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs), a fight that would’ve drawn enormous attention. Instead, Usyk’s longtime advisor, Serhii Lapin, revealed that the winner of the Parker–Wardley bout was the leading candidate for his next opponent. In other words, even as whispers of retirement linger, the champion seems hungry for one more statement fight.
Recovering from a nagging back injury suffered after his fifth-round knockout win over Daniel Dubois in their July 2024 rematch, Usyk was originally expected to defend his undisputed crown against Wardley in early 2026. Yet, true to form, Usyk changed course — dropping another belt and pursuing an immediate rematch with Tyson Fury in Riyadh that December. That unpredictable nature keeps both fans and rivals guessing.
Now, with no mandatory title defenses pressing against him, Usyk and his team have breathing room to study the evolving heavyweight scene. Even as time catches up with him, the 38-year-old still commands respect as one of boxing’s sharpest tacticians and most disciplined athletes. Can he really reclaim all four belts again — or is this the calm before one final storm?
One thing’s for sure: whether fans see him as a master strategist or a stubborn warrior unwilling to yield, Usyk continues to write his own rules. Could his next chapter redefine what it means to be an undisputed champion — or should he bow out while on top? Share your take — is this a legendary comeback in the making or a risk too far?
