Usyk to Fight About Five More Times, But Fury Is Not in the Plans – Lapin

Serhii Lapin, director of undisputed Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk’s team and CEO of Ready to Fight, has confirmed that the Ukrainian star plans to return to the ring in the first half of 2026, with his next opponent expected to be the winner of Joseph Parker vs. Fabio Wardley.

According to Lapin, Usyk intends to have around five more fights, but a trilogy with Tyson Fury is no longer a priority.

“He feels great and is in excellent shape. Theoretically, a Usyk vs. Fury fight is an interesting option — but for whom? Perhaps if the boxing fans truly demand it. But in my opinion, that chapter is already closed.

Itauma? I wouldn’t say he doesn’t want to fight Itauma. He’s a promising fighter, and his team has done a good job getting him into this position and into the rankings. But if we analyze the Heavyweight division, beyond Usyk there are many strong fighters.

Itauma still needs a serious test before facing a legend. Have we seen him go 12 rounds? Has he been in dangerous situations in the ring? My answer is no. At this stage, he does not have the tools to beat Usyk,” Lapin said.

In July, Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round to become an undisputed world champion for the third time in his career.

The fight between Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs) and Fabio Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs) will take place on October 25 at the O2 Arena in London, United Kingdom. The World Boxing Organization (WBO) has mandated Usyk to face the winner.