Who Should Usyk Fight Next?

[2497358]

I think the bigger question with Usyk now is not whether he is fighting too little, but who actually makes sense as his next opponent.

At this stage of his career, I don't really need to see him fight another random heavyweight just to stay busy. If he is going to return, I'd rather see a fight that adds something to his legacy.

Kabayel would be interesting to me. He has earned his position and isn't just a name being brought in for publicity. His style could also make things uncomfortable for Usyk, especially if he can force a physical fight and take away some of Usyk's movement.

Ruiz is a different kind of option. We already know what Ruiz can do when he gets close and starts throwing combinations, although his inactivity makes it difficult to know which version would actually turn up. From a pure matchup perspective, though, I would still watch it.Crossy Road


Wilder is probably the biggest commercial curiosity. Even now, there is always that question of what happens if Wilder lands clean. Usyk would be the clear favorite for me, but one mistake against Wilder could change the entire fight.

As for Verhoeven, I'm not really sold on that one as a boxing fight. It's interesting because of his name and kickboxing background, but Usyk has spent years fighting elite boxers. I'd rather see him stay in the heavyweight boxing picture.

If Usyk only has a few fights left, I'd personally go with Kabayel first, then one major fight in the US if that's really where he wants to build the next chapter of his career.

At this point, the opponent matters more than keeping busy. Usyk has already done enough to prove himself. Now I just want to see him pick a fight that actually means something.

[2200840]

Did you write this post six months ago and forget to press send?

[gilgamesh]

Sign of a bot. I banned him.