Former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is in discussions with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing over a farewell fight against former WBC champion Deontay Wilder in the United States.
The 39-year-old Ukrainian vacated his WBA (Super), WBC and IBF heavyweight titles last week but made it clear he has not retired, saying he wants “one last dance” before bringing down the curtain on his career.
Usyk identifies Wilder as final opponent
Usyk’s team director, Sergey Lapin, confirmed that Wilder is the preferred opponent for the unbeaten champion’s final professional fight.
“Usyk has already stated that he sees Deontay Wilder as the opponent for his last dance,” Lapin told BBC Sport.
He added that the contest offers significant sporting, commercial and international appeal.
Wilder’s manager, Shelly Finkel, also confirmed the American’s willingness to accept the bout if an official offer arrives.
Zuffa Boxing enters negotiations
The proposed fight could be promoted by Zuffa Boxing, the new venture led by UFC president Dana White and backed by Saudi Arabian investment.
Lapin revealed that discussions are ongoing but stressed no agreement has been finalised.
“We are in direct discussions with Zuffa Boxing at the highest level. At this stage, no agreements have been signed,” he said.
The new promotion aims to reshape professional boxing by introducing its own championship structure rather than relying on traditional sanctioning bodies.
America preferred for blockbuster clash
Lapin described the United States as the most suitable destination for the fight, although no date or venue has been confirmed.
He said a contest of this magnitude requires the right promotional partner, broadcast platform and event scale before being officially announced.
Wilder seeks one more major opportunity
Wilder, now 40, returned to winning ways by defeating Derek Chisora via split decision in April, recording the 45th victory of his professional career.
Although widely regarded as one of boxing’s hardest punchers, the American has struggled to recapture his best form since his trilogy with Tyson Fury.
Usyk, meanwhile, remains unbeaten in 25 professional bouts and is widely considered one of the greatest fighters of his era after becoming undisputed champion at both cruiserweight and heavyweight.
Despite calls for a rematch with kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven following their controversial bout in May, Usyk appears determined to end his career against Wilder if negotiations are successfully completed.
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