Will Usyk Conquer a Third Division? Lerena Ready to Defend Title Against the Ukrainian

WBC bridgerweight champion Kevin Lerena (30–3, 14 KOs) has spoken about his willingness to defend his belt against heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (23–0, 14 KOs), the holder of the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBO titles.

“Yes, I would fight Usyk — he’s the one who beat the best. Right now, he is the face of boxing, so I would absolutely fight him. He can do whatever he wants.

Previously, there was talk about me defending my title in Ukraine in February, but the date was changed to the end of March (against WBC Silver champion Sergey Radchenko — editor’s note). This might not work due to other potential plans and fight offers, but I’ve never been offered a fight with Usyk.

A rematch between Usyk and Fury? I think the fight was closer than the judges believed. I scored it 115–114 or even a draw, but not eight rounds against four,” Lerena said.

Lerena last stepped into the ring in March, where he lost unanimously to Justis Huni.

On December 21, Oleksandr Usyk avenged his defeat to Tyson Fury with a unanimous decision victory. The judges' scorecards read 116–112 three times.