Tyson Fury, despite losing twice to Usyk in 2024, isn't backing down. He's pushing hard for a third fight, saying:
"Oleksandr Usyk knows there's only one man that can beat him, I've done it twice before ... I am the fucking spartan."
Fury's determination has paid off. He's got a contract for a trilogy bout at Wembley in April 2026. The "Gypsy King" wants to reclaim his spot at the top of the heavyweight division.
Joseph Parker, the WBO mandatory challenger, also wants a piece of the action. After his win, Parker congratulated Usyk and asked:
"Usyk ... Well done. Congratulations. You look good, man. You look very good. Me next?"
Parker's recent wins over Deontay Wilder, Zhilei Zhang, and Martin Bakole have boosted his chances. His promoter, Frank Warren, who also represents Usyk, thinks Parker's got a good shot at the title. Warren said:
"His first defence ... will be against Joe Parker. One way or another, it will happen."
A fight with Parker would tick a lot of boxes for Usyk. It'd satisfy his mandatory duties and face a worthy opponent.
Then there's Jake Paul. The YouTuber-turned-boxer slipped into the ring after Usyk's win and stared him down. Paul boldly claimed:
"First AJ, then you. Book it."
Paul's push for a fight with Usyk has raised eyebrows. Many boxing experts don't take his challenge seriously. They see his MMA flirtation and partnership with Anthony Joshua as more about getting attention than serious boxing.
Usyk's got options, but he'll need to choose wisely. With Fury gunning for redemption, Parker earning his shot, and Paul trying to make waves, the heavyweight division's heating up. Whatever Usyk decides, fans are in for some exciting matchups in the coming months.