Oleksandr Usyk’s team has confirmed that direct talks are underway with Zuffa Boxing over a possible final fight against Deontay Wilder.
Usyk has repeatedly named Wilder as the opponent he wants for the last bout of his professional career. No agreement has been signed, but discussions are now active at a high level.
“Usyk has already stated that he sees Deontay Wilder as the opponent for his last dance,” Usyk’s team director Sergey Lapin said.
Lapin confirmed that Zuffa Boxing is being considered as one of the possible partners for a major international event.
“We are in direct discussions with Zuffa Boxing at the highest level,” Lapin said. “At this stage, no agreements have been signed.”
Wilder’s side also appears open to the fight. His manager, Shelly Finkel, said that if Wilder receives an offer to face Usyk, he would take it.
Usyk recently vacated the major heavyweight titles as he moves toward one final appearance before retirement. He has already defeated Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois twice, leaving Wilder as one of the biggest names from his era he has not faced.
Lapin said the United States would be the most logical location if the fight is finalized, but added that a matchup of this size needs the right partner, venue, broadcast platform and overall event structure.
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