With Tyson Fury seemingly retired, Oleksandr Usyk now sits atop of the heavyweight division. The Ukrainian wizard was once again too good for Anthony Joshua as he outpointed his fellow Olympic gold medalist for the second time in 11 months. Here, DAZN looks at what could be next for Usyk.
Tyson Fury
The biggest fight available in the heavyweight division is Oleksandr Usyk against Tyson Fury and it’s a battle that could potentially crown an undisputed champion if Fury holds onto his WBC belt. It’s still not clear whether Fury will return to the ring, but if he decides to then a contest with Usyk is the only bout that fans will wish to see.
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Filip Hrgovic
Sitting comfortably as Usyk’s IBF mandatory, Filip Hrgovic might not be in a rush to enforce it after struggling against Zhilei Zhang last weekend. The Croatian puncher was very fortunate to get the result and now he has a decision to make. Get more experience or take his chance now.
Joe Joyce
An old amateur rival of Usyk, Joe Joyce had no answers when he lost to the Ukrainian in 2013. Now marching through the heavyweight rankings, Joyce has the opportunity to become the top man with the WBO when he faces Joseph Parker next month. A win there will surely have Joyce knocking down the door of Usyk for his long-awaited world title shot.
Joseph Parker
Joseph Parker is eager to become world heavyweight champion for a second time and he can take one step closer to that dream if he defeats Joe Joyce on September 24. Victory there will propel Parker to the top of the WBO ratings and that will mean the New Zealander will be in pole position to face Usyk at some point next year.
Deontay Wilder
What does Deontay Wilder make of Usyk’s win over Anthony Joshua? The former WBC ruler returns in October to face Robert Helenius and if victorious it’s likely he’ll want to secure big fight. Could Usyk be the man to provide Wilder with an opportunity to become world champion again?