Negotiations for the Usyk vs. Wilder fight are gaining momentum: surprises are possible

Dmitriy Kel Jan. 5, 2026, 9 a.m.

Unified world heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk may have his next bout against former WBC titleholder Deontay Wilder—and it's not just rumors, but real negotiations happening in several directions. This was reported by Serhiy Lapin, the director of the Ukrainian boxer's team.

"Interest in this fight in the USA turned out to be significantly higher than many initially expected. We see serious enthusiasm from the American audience, promoters, and venues. In the coming weeks, the situation will become clearer, a balanced decision will be made, and it is quite possible that we will have a few genuinely interesting surprises," Lapin noted.

Special attention is paid by Usyk's team to the location. According to Lapin, the fight is planned to be organized in the United States, where Usyk hasn't fought since 2019. Key criteria will be the capacity of the arena and the atmosphere: "The more spectators—the better. The scale of the event is of enormous importance. Of course, the historical significance of the venue also plays a role and adds weight to the fight, but the main factor is the ability to create the atmosphere of a genuinely big fight."

Sources close to the negotiations mention that even Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas is being discussed as an option—a modern and spacious arena capable of accommodating up to 65,000 spectators. If the deal is closed, the fight could take place in the spring of 2026—the perfect time for the Ukrainian champion's grand return to the American market.

World Boxing News

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