Analysts reveal Oleksandr Usyk’s next potential opponent after Tyson Fury retires
With Tyson Fury’s unexpected retirement from boxing, Oleksandr Usyk faces a new chapter in his career. After defeating Fury and claiming the WBC title, the Ukrainian southpaw now sets his sights on another opportunity to unify the heavyweight division. The stage is being set for an electrifying bout with the winner of the upcoming clash between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker, promising to reignite excitement in the sport.
Tyson Fury’s Retirement and Usyk’s Reign as Heavyweight King
Tyson Fury’s surprise decision to retire has shifted the balance in the heavyweight landscape. Once vocal about a trilogy with Oleksandr Usyk, Fury seemingly walked away after two resounding defeats. In May 2024, Usyk secured his legacy by defeating Fury, taking the WBC belt, and becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion of the four-belt era.
However, Usyk’s pursuit of excellence came with sacrifices. To focus on his December 2024 rematch with Fury, he relinquished his IBF title, which was awarded to Daniel Dubois. Dubois later solidified his position by dismantling Anthony Joshua in a dominant performance, knocking him down four times to retain the IBF crown. Now, Usyk’s next unification quest hinges on the winner of the Dubois vs. Parker fight.
Dubois vs. Parker: The Next Heavyweight Showdown
Set for February 22, 2025, the highly anticipated clash between Daniel Dubois and Joseph Parker promises to be one of the year’s biggest events. Dubois, at 27, boasts youth and power, while Parker, a former WBO champion, brings experience and resilience to the ring. Both fighters have everything to gain, as the winner will likely face Usyk for heavyweight supremacy later in the year.
Though Dubois is seen as the favorite, Parker has proven his durability and skill, holding the interim WBO heavyweight title. Insiders suggest Usyk may even favor Parker’s chances, adding intrigue to an already compelling matchup. Regardless of the outcome, the prospect of a unification fight with Usyk ensures this bout will have global significance, drawing attention from fans and critics alike.
Revisiting Usyk’s Controversial Fight with Dubois
Should Daniel Dubois triumph over Parker, it would pave the way for a rematch with Usyk. Their first meeting in August 2023 was marred by controversy when Dubois landed a body shot that appeared to knock Usyk down. However, the referee ruled it an illegal low blow, a decision that divided the boxing community. Usyk regained control after the incident, eventually securing a ninth-round knockout.
A rematch would give Dubois the opportunity to prove he can overcome Usyk’s technical brilliance. For Usyk, it offers a chance to definitively settle the debate surrounding their initial encounter. Fans are eager for this potential showdown, which promises to deliver high drama and high stakes in equal measure.
Usyk’s Path to Cementing His Legacy
As Oleksandr Usyk looks to further his legacy, a unification fight with the winner of Dubois vs. Parker stands as the logical next step. Both potential opponents—Dubois with his power and Parker with his experience—offer unique challenges that could test the Ukrainian’s skill and endurance.
For the boxing world, Usyk’s continued dominance is a story worth following. With the heavyweight division undergoing significant shifts, Usyk remains a beacon of excellence, carrying the sport’s prestige into each fight. As February approaches, all eyes are on the Dubois vs. Parker clash, which will determine who earns the right to face one of boxing’s all-time greats in a bout that could define the next era of the heavyweight division.
