Following his epic bout against Tyson Fury in May in Riyadh, where Usyk claimed all four heavyweight titles, Oleksandr Usyk opens up about his future career plans and reflects on the recent defeat that has deeply affected him.
Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian champion who remains unbeaten in his professional career, continues to write a new chapter in his sports history. From winning the Olympic medal in the -91 kg weight category in 2012 to dominating the heavyweight division, Usyk seems to have achieved everything possible in boxing. However, despite all his accomplishments, the Ukrainian does not seem ready to retire.
In his conversation with Boxing King Media, Usyk discussed his mother’s reaction to his historic victory. He recounted a phone call with his mother, who questioned whether he intended to retire from boxing, saying: “The first phone call with my mother after the win. She said: ‘Okay?’ I said no. But she replied: ‘Why? You’ve won everything.’ I said yes, but I have contracts and revenge to fulfill.”
Usyk, who feels an unending passion for boxing, confirmed his continuation in the ring: “I will keep boxing because I love it. This is my life. My wife said: I know you’ll never stop boxing. I will continue participating in competitions and training.”
Despite his outstanding success, Usyk still remembers his defeat in the 2009 Amateur World Championship, saying: “I remember that loss well. I was angry because I don’t like losing. But it taught me a lot and gave me a new opportunity.”
Now, Usyk plans to continue his career, with his next bout against Tyson Fury scheduled for December. However, only three titles will be on the line, after the Ukrainian vacated the IBF title in favor of Daniel Dubois. Dubois might face Anthony Joshua in the near future, with a match anticipated on September 21 at Wembley Stadium.
What do you think of Oleksandr Usyk’s decision to continue? Should he retire after the rematch, or should he keep achieving more milestones?
