Oleksandr Usyk says he is moving toward the final stretch of his career and has no plans to follow boxing’s familiar pattern of retiring and returning.
Usyk, who holds The Ring, IBF, WBA and WBC heavyweight titles, faces Rico Verhoeven on Saturday in Egypt, headlining a DAZN Pay-Per-View event at the Pyramids of Giza.
The Ukrainian has repeatedly suggested that his career is nearing its end, and that message has not changed before the Verhoeven fight. “Three fights [including Verhoeven] and finished,” Usyk said. “It’s not 100 percent, but when I say I’m retired, I won’t be back.”
Usyk turns 40 in January and has already beaten many of the biggest names of his era, including two wins each over Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois.
Although Verhoeven is far more experienced in kickboxing than boxing, Usyk says he is taking the challenge seriously. “It’s going to be different, but it’s going to be a great show,” he said. “It doesn’t matter who I am fighting, I am prepared 100 percent.”
Verhoeven brings a 66-10 kickboxing record but has only one professional boxing bout. Usyk is a heavy favorite, yet he insists his focus remains on discipline, preparation and trust in his team.
If Usyk wins, the remaining fights on his short list could bring major heavyweight decisions. Agit Kabayel, the WBC interim champion, stands out as one of the leading contenders waiting for his shot.