Oleksandr Usyk casts doubt on third Tyson Fury fight before retiring
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has cast doubt on a third fight with Tyson Fury, suggesting he could instead face mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel before retiring.
The Ukrainian star is scheduled to defend his world titles against kickboxing crossover Rico Verhoeven in May.
That upcoming bout represents his first ring appearance since a knockout victory over Daniel Dubois last summer.
Mandatory obligations complicate retirement plan
Earlier this month, the 38-year-old outlined a clear three-fight roadmap to conclude his illustrious career.
He initially targeted Verhoeven, the winner of an upcoming Fabio Wardley versus Dubois clash, and finally a third meeting with Fury.
However, boxing authorities are expected to order the undefeated southpaw to face German contender Kabayel following his May defence.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, the two-time undisputed champion admitted his schedule remains completely flexible.
Maybe I will fight Kabayel, maybe I don’t face Tyson Fury for a third time, and I fight Kabayel instead.
I only say my plan, but that is not set in stone.
Fury insists rival will demand trilogy
Usyk secured back-to-back decision victories over his British rival during 2024 to cement his historic legacy.
Despite those definitive results, the outspoken heavyweight maintains he was unfairly treated by the judges on both occasions.
The former WBC titleholder, who returns to action against Arslanbek Makhmudov next month, believes financial motivations will eventually force a third encounter.
He’ll be begging for a trilogy by the end of the year.
There’s no one for him to fight to make any money. There’s only the GK, the big man.
