Oleksandr Usyk, the renowned Ukrainian boxer and undisputed heavyweight champion, has hinted at his impending retirement. With an illustrious career that includes an Olympic gold medal, a perfect professional record, and victories over some of the greatest heavyweights of his generation, Usyk now plans to fight just two more times before hanging up his gloves. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, he expressed satisfaction with his achievements and revealed his intentions for these final bouts. The first could be against the winner of the upcoming Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker match, while the second might surprisingly feature UFC star Alex Pereira.
Usyk's boxing journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. He became the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis in 2000, solidifying his place in boxing history. His decision to retire comes after a series of remarkable victories, including those over Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury. Despite his dominance, Usyk remains humble about his future plans. "I feel great myself," he said, indicating that he believes he can prepare for only two more fights. This sentiment reflects a deep understanding of his body and career longevity.
The identity of Usyk's opponents for his final fights adds intrigue to his announcement. The immediate contender is likely to emerge from the February 22 bout between Dubois and Parker, both formidable fighters in their own right. However, Usyk's mention of a potential show fight with Alex Pereira caught many by surprise. Pereira, currently the undisputed UFC light heavyweight champion, has built a reputation for his exceptional punching power and thrilling matches. While Pereira has not indicated any plans to leave UFC, the allure of facing Usyk could prove irresistible. The possibility of this crossover event has sparked excitement among fans of both sports.
Usyk's career has been marked by excellence and resilience. As he prepares for these last two fights, the boxing world watches with anticipation. Whether it's a traditional championship match or a unique crossover bout, Usyk's final performances promise to be memorable. Fans will cherish these moments as they bid farewell to one of the sport's most accomplished athletes. The stage is set for Usyk to conclude his illustrious career on a high note, leaving behind a legacy that will be hard to match.