Teddy Atlas, the renowned boxing analyst and trainer, believes only 'Father Time' can beat Oleksandr Usyk. The Ukrainian champion's undefeated record and dominance in both cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions have left many wondering who could possibly defeat him.
Usyk, now 38, turned pro in 2013 and hasn't looked back since. He's cleaned out the cruiserweight division and become the undisputed heavyweight champion. His list of victories reads like a who's who of boxing: Derek Chisora, Anthony Joshua (twice), Tyson Fury (twice), and Daniel Dubois.
The champion's next move is still up in the air. He's been ordered to defend his WBO belt against Joseph Parker, but he's also eyeing a rematch with Daniel Dubois to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion.
On his show 'The Fight', Atlas shared his thoughts on who could eventually topple Usyk:
"Who's there now to beat Usyk? You ready for my answer? The same guy who's been on the rise to beat all the greats. Father time. The same guy who's just laying in wait.
Whether your name is Ali, Louis or your name is Uysk, just waiting, waiting for that chance to get you into that place. Father Time, the only undefeated fighter. Usyk's 38 now, that's the only thing. I'm not saying he's showing signs of deterioration, no, and he lives the right life, and that's important."
Usyk shows no signs of slowing down or vulnerability. His last fight, the second battle with Fury, ended with a unanimous decision win. The judges' scorecards showed an even wider margin than in their first contest.
Despite Usyk's continued dominance, Atlas suggests that age will eventually catch up with the champion, as it does with all great fighters. For now, though, the Ukrainian southpaw remains at the top of his game, a technical marvel who's yet to meet his match in the ring.
