Oleksandr Usyk has revealed that the end of his career is approaching, confirming he has already set a date in mind for retirement as he prepares to begin what could be his final run in the sport.
The 39-year-old heavyweight champion is set to embark on a three-fight plan that could take him through to a potential farewell in 2027. Having already achieved undisputed status at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, Usyk is now entering the closing chapter of a career that has firmly established his legacy at the top level of boxing.
His next bout comes against Rico Verhoeven, a kickboxing star with a 1-0 boxing record, in a matchup that stands out for both its opponent and setting as it is scheduled to take place at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
Beyond that, Usyk is targeting the winner of the bout between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, while also keeping Agit Kabayel in consideration as a mandatory challenger. A previously discussed trilogy with Tyson Fury appears less likely for now, with Fury instead expected to face Anthony Joshua.
Despite the uncertainty around his final opponents, Usyk made it clear that the decision to step away is already taking shape. Reflecting on his future, he admitted that he has begun thinking about how he will announce his retirement.
Image Credit: BBC