Oleksandr Usyk looks set to make a shock return to the cruiserweight division, but veteran promoter Frank Warren believes that the Ukrainian boxing maestro could still be tempted to remain at heavyweight for at least one more blockbuster fight.
Having previously claimed the undisputed crown at cruiserweight in a dominant run that captivated the sport, Usyk made the permanent-feeling move up to the heavyweight division in 2019. Despite giving up significant size and natural weight advantages against almost all of his opponents in the premier weight class, his exceptional footwork, unmatched technical proficiency, and high-volume output allowed him to navigate the division with astonishing success.
The pinnacle of this heavyweight journey came when he defeated Tyson Fury in a legendary, tightly contested showdown in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to become the first undisputed heavyweight world champion of the modern four-belt era. That historic night cemented Usyk’s status not only as one of the defining fighters of his generation, but as an all-time great pound-for-pound technician.
Following that initial triumph over the "Gypsy King," Usyk vacated the IBF title due to mandatory defense obligations, but continued his incredible championship campaign. He went on to face Fury for a second time, securing another monumental victory before later capturing the IBF belt back in a high-stakes rematch against Daniel Dubois in 2025, thereby becoming a two-time undisputed ruler of the heavyweight division—a feat of extraordinary proportions in modern boxing history.
However, the landscape of Usyk’s career began to shift following a somewhat disappointing performance against kickboxing legend Rico Verhoeven. In the wake of that bout, Usyk made the decision to relinquish his heavyweight championship belts. Almost immediately, speculation mounted regarding his next career move, with reports firmly linking the Ukrainian pound-for-pound star to a dramatic return to the cruiserweight division. Dropping back down in weight would present a new physical challenge, and rumors have quickly circulated that a blockbuster clash with superstar David Benavidez could await him if he successfully re-establishes himself at 200 pounds.
Yet, boxing is a sport where plans change rapidly, and the allure of massive heavyweight encounters remains difficult to ignore. In a revealing interview with Sky Sports Boxing, prominent British promoter Frank Warren weighed in on Usyk’s future, expressing his belief that a potential third clash with Tyson Fury could easily convince the Ukrainian to swerve his planned cruiserweight return, provided that Fury handles business in his next outing.
Warren’s perspective hinges entirely on the upcoming high-stakes heavyweight showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. Fury is scheduled to face his fierce domestic rival Joshua for the WBA (Super) heavyweight world title next month, in a bout that carries massive historical and commercial significance for British boxing. If Fury manages to overcome Joshua and emerge victorious, Warren believes the narrative for a trilogy fight against Usyk becomes too compelling to resist.
"Him [Usyk] and Tyson [Fury could fight again], if Tyson comes through [against Joshua]," Warren told Sky Sports Boxing when discussing the future trajectory of the heavyweight division. "Irrespective of the results, they were good fights to watch, they were exciting fights. I would have thought so [that a trilogy will be extremely appealing to Usyk if Fury beats Joshua]."
The potential trilogy represents a massive financial and legacy-defining opportunity for both men. Their previous encounters produced high drama, tactical masterclasses, and unforgettable moments that captured the attention of the global sporting public. A third meeting would undoubtedly rank as one of the most anticipated events in modern combat sports history, giving Usyk a compelling reason to delay his cruiserweight homecoming and lace up his gloves for another grueling battle among the giants.
Meanwhile, the stage is already set for the crucial catalyst in this heavyweight chess match. The monumental domestic showdown between Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua is scheduled to take place on Friday, December 11, under the bright lights of the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales. Promoters have built a massive card around the main event, with three additional heavyweight bouts now officially confirmed to be featured on the undercard, ensuring a night of high-stakes action for fight fans in attendance and watching around the world. As December 11 approaches, the entire boxing world will be watching closely, knowing that the result in Cardiff will not only crown a WBA (Super) champion but will also likely dictate whether Oleksandr Usyk returns to familiar territory at cruiserweight or steps back into the heavyweight fire for one final, epic chapter with Tyson Fury.
