Oleksandr Usyk, the former undisputed heavyweight boxing champion, appears to be preparing for what could be his final professional bout against Deontay Wilder, a longtime rival and the last major heavyweight champion from Usyk’s era whom he has not defeated. The announcement comes shortly after Usyk relinquished his three world title belts, signaling an imminent retirement from the sport.

At 39 years old and unbeaten in 25 fights, Usyk has decisively dominated the heavyweight division in recent years, holding victories over notable champions including Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Daniel Dubois—each of whom has held a version of the world heavyweight title since 2015. With these wins behind him, Usyk has identified Wilder as the final major opponent remaining from his prime competitive era.

Wilder, 40, held the WBC heavyweight title from 2015 until losing it to Fury in 2020. After multiple title exchanges and defeats, including a stoppage loss to Zhilei Zhang in 2024 that many viewed as his own career sunset, Wilder recently returned to contention with a win over Derek Chisora. Despite this, Wilder’s recent record includes four losses in seven fights, reflecting a decline from his peak.

Following the belt relinquishments, Usyk has shifted allegiance to Zuffa Boxing, a promotional company led by UFC president Dana White, with Saudi Arabian financier Turki Alalshikh involved. Zuffa Boxing has recently attracted other high-profile fighters, including Conor Benn. The move to Zuffa is seen as a strategic step toward staging this anticipated “last dance” fight.

Prior to this development, Usyk’s most recent matches included a closely contested win over kickboxer Rico Verhoeven in May and speculation involving bouts with Agit Kabayel—who inherited the WBC belt—and Murat Gassiev, the new WBA champion. However, a showdown with Wilder now appears more tangible, offering a high-profile finale for Usyk and an opportunity for Wilder to regain relevance in the heavyweight landscape.

While this final fight may not align with all fans’ expectations for Usyk’s retirement bout, the matchup carries significance: it represents the culmination of Usyk’s era and offers Wilder a last chance to recapture former glory. For both fighters, the event promises to be a defining moment—whether as a conclusive farewell or a final effort to extend their legacies in heavyweight boxing.