Ukrainian Former Title Challenger Calls Out Usyk
Former WBC Bridgerweight title challenger Sergey Radchenko shared his thoughts on the future of undisputed Heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
– How do you rate Oleksandr Usyk’s current form? Has he become even better?
– Given the camp Oleksandr has and his approach to training, he gets better with every camp — even though he isn’t getting any younger.
– What do you think about a possible fight against Joseph Parker? Does Usyk need that bout and how, in your view, might it end?
– Only Sasha himself decides which fights he needs. He alone knows his goals, his condition, and his desires. Fans can only speculate. As for Parker, I know him personally — I saw him spar with Wladimir Klitschko and I’ve watched his recent outings. The guy has character, power, and skills that can trouble any boxer. If Usyk chooses him next, I think we’ll see a wonderful fight, and Oleksandr will win.
– There’s also talk of another fight with Tyson Fury. Would you like to see a trilogy?
– Yes. If the promoters hype it right and Tyson brings the fire, it will be exciting. You always want to watch two bright personalities square off.
– Which opponents would you personally like to see Usyk face?
– A fight with me — and I’m not joking. For me, that would be the most interesting. Otherwise, I enjoy all of Sasha’s performances. I always root for him wholeheartedly and will gladly watch his next fight against any opponent.
– After the Dubois fight, blogger Jake Paul also called out Usyk for an MMA-rules bout. Does that make any sense? Does Paul have even a small chance?
– That’s definitely not boxing; it’s a show. Again, everyone does what they like, and the audience watches if they’re interested. Any performance by Oleksandr interests me, provided it isn’t “fixed” by contract terms.
– Some experts say Oleksandr should retire in time so he doesn’t lose his titles. Do you agree?
– It’s always best to do everything at the right moment. Many say they would have retired after the first or second win over Fury if they were in Usyk’s place, but everyone has their own path and choices. Sasha knows exactly what’s right for him. Personally, I want Usyk to retire undefeated — and preferably still undisputed.
Sergey Radchenko (11-8, 5 KOs) last fought in May, losing by third-round TKO to WBC Bridgerweight champion Kevin Lerena.
On 19 July, Oleksandr Usyk (24-0, 15 KOs) knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round, becoming undisputed world champion for the third time.
Photo: Newsweek