Dillian Whyte’s Trainer Explains Why Oleksandr Usyk Should Retire

Xavier Miller, trainer of British heavyweight Dillian Whyte, has shared why he believes two-time undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk should consider retirement.

"I think it’s fair to say that one of the most successful heavyweights against Usyk was Dereck Chisora. You know, he’s extremely physical and applies relentless pressure. I don’t see Daniel Dubois as that kind of fighter—he’s more of a mid-range guy who can apply some pressure, but not like Dereck did. Still, using some of those tactics might help.

You’ve got to look at guys like that, but then consider someone as big as Tyson Fury—even he tried leaning on Usyk and it didn’t work. Usyk is just so good at making adjustments. That’s the problem. You constantly have to adjust on the fly to counter what he’s doing.

And today’s heavyweights don’t seem to have that same ability as the guys from the '80s and '90s. But it would be interesting if they did.

I think Usyk should retire. I see him slowing down. And like many great fighters—not just heavyweights—they often stay one fight too long. Lennox Lewis picked the perfect time to walk away. If he had taken a rematch with Klitschko, he would’ve lost. He knew he was no longer the same fighter.

I think Usyk and his team need to review his last two or three fights and ask themselves: Was Tyson Fury just that competitive? Or is Usyk beginning to slow down? You’ve got to pick the right moment. Hopefully, for Daniel, the timing will be right," Miller said.

Usyk has previously stated that he plans to have two more fights in his professional career. Potential opponents include Joseph Parker and a rematch with Daniel Dubois.