February 13, (THEWILL) – Heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk has announced his retirement plans, stating he will participate in two final bouts before concluding his distinguished career.
The Ukrainian fighter, who holds multiple championship belts, made this declaration during a recent interview.
The 38-year-old champion, maintaining his undefeated status, revealed his intention to face the victor of the upcoming Joseph Parker versus Daniel Dubois match scheduled for February 22 in Riyadh.
This contest represents a significant opportunity for both Parker and Dubois to establish their position in the heavyweight division.
Usyk’s remarkable achievements include his victory over Tyson Fury in May 2024, which established him as the first undisputed heavyweight champion in nearly 25 years.
While he relinquished the IBF belt, he maintains possession of the WBC, WBA, and WBO championships following his second triumph against Fury.
During his interview, Usyk stated, “I think two years, one and a half (left in boxing). I feel great myself. I feel I have two fights to prepare for, not more. Just two.”
The champion further confirmed his commitment to facing either Parker or Dubois, saying, “I will fight (who wins) Joseph Parker, Daniel Dubois, no problem.”
Current IBF champion Dubois, who experienced defeat against Usyk in 2023, voiced his determination to progress, stating, “I am just getting better, improving. They say when you win a world title you improve.
“So I feel like that is what is happening with me, I am ready to show what I can do again and conquer whoever they put in front of me.”
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
