Undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has confirmed that he is not retiring just yet, reversing his earlier hints about hanging up the gloves—but he made it clear that teenage prodigy Moses Itauma will not be his next opponent.
Usyk, who cemented his legacy after defeating Tyson Fury to unify the heavyweight division, has revealed that he still has “unfinished business” in boxing, signalling plans to defend or possibly vacate titles selectively in 2026.
The hard-hitting boxer revealed on his website that he will continue fighting until he is 41 years old, and thereafter, he will build a sports academy where he will train other boxers.
“I’ll fight until I’m 41,” Usyk told the Ready to Fight website. “Then I’ll build a sports academy. I’ll train there and train others.”
The 38-year-old, who defeated Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in his most recent bout, also said he has no plans to take on 19-year-old emerging sensation Moses Itauma.
“No, I won’t fight Itauma [in the next fight]. He’s young—always teasing me. And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas!” Usyk said.
“I can’t say who exactly because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name,” he added.
The Ukrainian champion’s comments effectively rule out speculation of a potential bout with 19-year-old British sensation Moses Itauma, who has rapidly risen through the heavyweight ranks and publicly expressed his desire to face Usyk soon.
Usyk’s decision suggests his immediate focus may remain on rematches or legacy bouts, possibly against Fury or another top-tier contender, before considering retirement again.
