Usyk Has just two fights left – eyes UFC champion showdown
Oleksandr Usyk, who recently celebrated his 38th birthday, has revealed that his career is nearing its end.
“I have about a year and a half left, maybe two at most. I’m preparing for two more fights, and that will be it,” Usyk told Sky Sports.
Currently, Usyk holds three of the four major heavyweight world titles (WBA, WBC, WBO) and aims to unify them in his upcoming fight.
“My priority is the winner of the February 22 bout,” he said, referring to the highly anticipated clash between British fighter Daniel Dubois and New Zealand’s Joseph Parker. Dubois will be making his second IBF title defense.
After Usyk’s December rematch victory over Tyson Fury, Dubois immediately called him out: “Usyk, I want my revenge! I want payback for what happened last time!”
The two previously faced off in 2023, with Usyk securing a ninth-round knockout. However, controversy still lingers over a body shot Dubois landed in the fifth round, which sent Usyk to the canvas. The referee ruled it a low blow, giving Usyk five minutes to recover instead of starting a count—a decision that remains hotly debated.
Pereira wants to conquer boxing next
Alex Pereira, the reigning UFC light heavyweight champion, has dominated multiple combat sports. Before claiming UFC gold, he ruled both the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions in Glory, the world’s top kickboxing promotion. Now, he’s setting his sights on boxing.
Speaking on the Jaxxon podcast, Pereira shared his ambitions: “I really want this. I’m under contract with the UFC, but we’ve seen it happen before—just look at Conor McGregor.”
The Brazilian fighter made it clear that if he steps into the boxing ring, he wants to face the best. “I’m a champion, so I want to fight a champion—Usyk. That would be a great fight. People say that in pure boxing, I’d be lost. But I love boxing. I’ve already sparred with experienced pros, and my coach can vouch for me.”
His trainer, Plinio Cruz, backed him up: “I’ve put Alex in the ring with top-10 heavyweight boxers. These are guys with serious credentials. I won’t name names, but Alex did really well. I believe in him.”
