In a recent discussion, Tony Bellew shared his insights on the future landscape of the heavyweight division once the reigning two-time undisputed champion, Oleksandr Usyk, decides to hang up his gloves. Bellew envisions a scenario where a new dominant force will emerge, much like Usyk has been since his transition from the cruiserweight division.
Over the past six years, Usyk has been an unstoppable force in the heavyweight category. His impressive record includes early victories against Derek Chisora and multiple triumphs over boxing giants such as Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Daniel Dubois. Bellew, in a conversation with Carl Froch, painted a vivid picture of what the heavyweight division might look like once Usyk retires.
“Oleksandr Usyk will simply walk away into the sunset, saying he’s had enough,” Bellew remarked. “Once he does, we’ll see a scramble for the belts, leading to lesser champions. Eventually, someone new will rise to the top.”
At 38 years old, Usyk’s future in the sport remains uncertain, despite holding three of the four major belts. There have been talks of a potential return to the ring this year, with a possible match against former world champion Deontay Wilder. Wilder, who has had a mixed run of form, recently secured a seventh-round stoppage against Tyrrell Herndon in Kansas.
A fight between Usyk and Wilder seems to be on the horizon. Bellew, a former world champion himself, named Moses Itauma as the likely successor to pick up the titles. However, he cautioned that the path to becoming the new champion would not be easy.
“Moses Itauma will clean up and become the reigning, undisputed, unified champion,” Bellew predicted. “But he will have to go through a tough first year. And it will be tough.”
Itauma has been a standout performer since his professional debut in 2023. With an unbeaten record of 13 wins and 11 knockouts, he has quickly made a name for himself. His most recent fight in August saw him secure a statement win against former world-level contender Dillian Whyte, whom he defeated in just two minutes.
The 21-year-old is set to return to action in a few weeks against the durable Jermaine Franklin. This fight will headline the Co-op Live event, marking Itauma’s first time headlining in the UK. A victory against Franklin could propel Itauma into the title picture.
Saudi Arabian boxing chief, Turki Alalshikh, has expressed interest in seeing Itauma face Usyk next for the titles. This potential matchup has generated significant buzz in the boxing community.
Whether Itauma faces Usyk or another contender, his team will undoubtedly be aiming for a shot at the world stage in 2026. The future of the heavyweight division promises to be exciting, with new talents ready to step into the spotlight once Usyk’s era comes to an end.
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