Usyk's recent victory over Daniel Dubois, where he secured a TKO in the fifth round, has further cemented his status as the division's top dog. This win follows their controversial first encounter in August 2023, which involved a disputed low blow incident.
The Ukrainian fighter's list of achievements is impressive. He's the only man to be undisputed champion in the four-belt era at heavyweight and was previously the undisputed cruiserweight champion. Usyk has barely been troubled in his professional fights, with notable victories over Anthony Joshua (twice) and Tyson Fury.
In a recent interview with talkSPORT Boxing, Bellew shared his thoughts on potential challengers for Usyk.
"People won't like this but the person who gives him the best fight is Tyson Fury, probably. People don't like me saying that but he's the one who's given him the most trouble."
Bellew didn't stop there. He added:
"[Fury] or 'AJ'. The rematch with 'AJ', 'AJ' was level going into round 10."
While Fury and Joshua top Bellew's list, other contenders are emerging. Joseph Parker, the WBO mandatory challenger, has put himself in the conversation with recent victories over Martin Bakole, Zhilei Zhang, and Deontay Wilder.
There's also buzz around up-and-coming star Moses Itauma. However, with only 12 fights under his belt, many consider a title shot against Usyk premature for the young boxer.
Usyk's unprecedented achievement as a two-time undisputed champion in the four-belt era has set a new standard in heavyweight boxing. As the division searches for credible challengers, all eyes will be on Fury and Joshua to see if they can live up to Bellew's assessment and give Usyk a run for his money.