Former two-weight world champion David Haye has identified Deontay Wilder as the final opponent Oleksandr Usyk should face to cement his status as the greatest heavyweight of his generation. Speaking to BoxingScene, Haye argued that a victory over the American “Bronze Bomber” would ensure the Ukrainian technician has “beaten every man of the era” before he eventually walks away from the sport.
Oleksandr Usyk, who currently holds the WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight titles, is already the first undisputed champion of the four-belt era. While he has already defeated major rivals including Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder remains the only significant name from this period missing from his professional record. Haye believes this specific legacy fight is the last necessary step for the champion.
The suggestion comes as Oleksandr Usyk prepares for a unique challenge against former kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven. The 12-round bout is set for Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Egypt at the ‘Glory in Giza’ event. While Rico Verhoeven is making a transition from the kickboxing world, the broader boxing community is focusing on how Usyk will navigate his rumored three-fight retirement plan.
Haye argues Deontay Wilder is the final legacy box to tick
David Haye’s endorsement of a Wilder fight relies on historical perception rather than current form. Deontay Wilder has faced a difficult run recently, losing four of his last seven bouts, including defeats to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang. However, Haye maintains that in 50 years, historians will only look at the “name brand” on the resume.
Haye pointed out that future fans will not care if Wilder had a “life and death” struggle against Derek Chisora in the twilight of his career. Instead, they will see that Usyk reigned supreme against every dominant champion of his time. By adding Wilder to his list of victories, Usyk would arguably leave no room for debate regarding his dominance.
The former “Hayemaker” believes Usyk has earned the right to dictate his final matches. He noted that the Ukrainian has consistently found ways to beat every man in and around his era. Haye even suggested that Usyk’s rivalry with figures like Tyson Fury has proven he can compete with legends like Evander Holyfield and Lennox Lewis.
Heavyweight landscape and the impact of rising contenders
While Haye is focused on Wilder, he has also acknowledged the physical threat posed by younger heavyweights. In a previous interview with iFLTV, Haye described 20-year-old Moses Itauma as the only boxer capable of defeating Usyk. Itauma has built a reputation for heavy-handedness, recently stopping Dillian Whyte in under two minutes.
Other contenders are also vying for a shot at the champion. The WBO recently ordered a mandatory defense against interim champion Joseph Parker, while unbeaten Agit Kabayel remains a looming threat. Despite these obstacles, plans for Usyk’s next bout after Egypt are already being discussed by Turki Alalshikh, with a potential 2027 date in Istanbul.
Oleksandr Usyk has confirmed a professional record of 24-0 with 15 KOs and has twice defeated Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Daniel Dubois. He has previously noted his interest in fighting Deontay Wilder, and with his retirement being “not 100% final,” a massive payday against the American power-puncher could still be on the cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does David Haye believe Deontay Wilder is the right opponent for Oleksandr Usyk?
David Haye argues that Deontay Wilder represents the “only box left to tick” for Oleksandr Usyk’s legacy. He believes that by defeating Wilder, Usyk will have officially beaten every dominant champion of the modern era, ensuring his historical standing remains undisputed in decades to come regardless of Wilder’s recent losses.
What are Oleksandr Usyk’s current plans for retirement?
Oleksandr Usyk has discussed a three-fight plan that includes his upcoming bout against Rico Verhoeven before retiring. However, he has since clarified that this timeline is not 100% final, leaving the door open for further matches or potential large-scale events in 2027.
When and where is Oleksandr Usyk’s next fight taking place?
Oleksandr Usyk is scheduled to face Rico Verhoeven on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The 12-round heavyweight match will take place at the ‘Glory in Giza’ event held at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
