Clashes Against Oleksandr Usyk Become Deontay Wilder's Priority

JAKARTA The undisputed fight against world champion twice, Oleksandr Usyk, will be a priority on the agenda of former world champion Deontay Wilder in the 2026 calendar.

Shelly Finkel as Wilder's manager said they would definitely not miss the fight if there was an appropriate offer, especially Usyk's status as the best heavyweight fighter at the moment.

"Usyk is a great champion. We have plans for next year. We want Oleksandr Usyk to be part of that plan. If we accept the right offer, we will be open to the fight," he said.

Usyk, who previously won against Daniel Dubois to win the undisputed world title for the second time in July 2025, said he was interested in fighting Wilder when he returned to the ring later.

The boxer from Ukraine said Wilder was one of the most eye-catching opponents. He believes their clashes will attract the attention of boxing lovers.

"I want to fight Deontay Wilder. For me, I think it's interesting. He's a world champion, he's a very famous man, he's a strong man. He's one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of 10 years," he said.

Usyk is expected to defend his undisputed title against Fabio Wardley, who managed to make a surprise to beat Joseph Parker to become the WBO interm champion.

However, Usyk prefers to remove the WBO belt, a decision that is considered very business-based because it is more profitable if he decides to fight another much bigger name.

Wilder is a former WBC world champion, a belt later taken by Tyson Fury. The American fighter has struggled in recent years, winning only twice in six fights.