Oleksandr Usyk has once again become the heavyweight champion of the world. Achieving this at the age of 38, he remains undefeated in his professional career. What seemed like a fantasy four years ago is now a reality.
Our athlete has firmly established himself at the top of the heavyweight division. If in 2021 Usyk was not a particularly interesting opponent for Joshua and Fury, now he has become the most sought-after contender, the main star of any boxing event. Usyk now has the power to dictate his path forward.
An Easy Path to New Heights
The rematch with Dubois turned out to be one of Usyk's easiest fights in the heavyweight category. During the stare-down at the weigh-in, the British boxer appeared tense and scared, raising doubts about his mental readiness for the match.
In contrast, Usyk looked like his best self. All accusations regarding his aging were simply words that Usyk dismissed.
It seemed that Dubois would have improved over the two years; he had victories over three strong opponents – Jarrell Miller, Filip Hrgovic, and Anthony Joshua. He knocked all three out, particularly impressively against Joshua, effectively ending the champion's ambitions who once retired Wladimir Klitschko.
However, in practice, Dubois' new team did not devise any effective strategy against Usyk in those two years. Daniel attempted to box aggressively but was knocked down twice and received powerful strikes in the fifth round. He was knocked out much faster than two years ago.
Moreover, Dubois is the only boxer after “test” Chazz Witherspoon to have lost to Usyk in the heavyweight division by knockout, not by decision. Given this, a trilogy with him is no longer relevant for Usyk.
However, a trilogy is possible with another British fighter – Tyson Fury. Usyk himself mentioned him as a potential next opponent in a flash interview after the fight.
“Who’s next? Maybe Tyson Fury. I don’t know yet; I want to go home,” Usyk stated.
And although Fury previously announced his retirement, this scenario remains likely if a suitable purse is offered (and Tyson is known to be particular about that). However, the one person who can secure that crucial financial aspect wants to see Usyk face a different opponent altogether.
