Oleksandr Usyk's final opponent may have already been revealed following the Ukrainian's decision to vacate his remaining heavyweight world titles. Promoter Eddie Hearn believes former WBC champion Deontay Wilder is the most likely man to face Usyk in what is expected to be the final fight of the unbeaten champion's remarkable career.
Earlier this week, Usyk confirmed he had vacated the WBC, WBA and IBF heavyweight titles while also announcing that he intends to retire after one more bout. The decision has reshaped heavyweight boxing and sparked immediate speculation over who will receive the honour of sharing the ring with one of the greatest fighters of his generation.
Usyk leaves behind an unforgettable legacy
Usyk walks away from the championship picture after achieving almost everything possible in professional boxing. The Ukrainian defeated Anthony Joshua twice before repeating the feat against Tyson Fury, becoming the first undisputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis when he claimed victory in their first meeting.
He also avenged the only defeat of his heavyweight career against Daniel Dubois, strengthening his place near the very top of the pound for pound rankings and cementing his reputation as one of the finest champions of the modern era.
Following a WBC order to defend his title against mandatory challenger Agit Kabayel, Usyk instead chose to vacate the belt, allowing the unbeaten German to be promoted to full world champion.
Eddie Hearn points towards Deontay Wilder
While some fans suggested a rematch with Rico Verhoeven could be next, Eddie Hearn believes another familiar heavyweight will be standing across the ring from Usyk.
Speaking during DAZN's broadcast of the Jaron Ennis against Xander Zayas world title fight, Hearn hinted that Deontay Wilder is expected to receive the opportunity.
"As I understand it, Usyk will fight Wilder next. He wants to do what he wants to do, I guess, and have one more in the sun, and now the contenders are going to get their shots. If you know you know."
Usyk and Wilder were previously linked with a fight earlier this year before negotiations stalled. Wilder instead accepted a contest against Derek Chisora, keeping himself active while waiting for another major opportunity.
Can Wilder produce one final upset?
Although Wilder remains one of the hardest punchers in boxing history with 43 knockout victories, he would almost certainly enter a fight against Usyk as the underdog. The American has suffered difficult defeats in recent years against Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang, raising questions over whether he remains capable of competing with the very best heavyweights.
Even so, Wilder's punching power means he can never be completely dismissed. A single right hand has changed countless fights throughout his career, making him one of the sport's most dangerous opponents regardless of form.
For Usyk, victory over Wilder would add another former world champion to an already outstanding boxing record before bringing the curtain down on an extraordinary career.
What Happens Next
No official announcement has been made regarding Usyk's final opponent, but Hearn's comments have intensified speculation that Deontay Wilder could land the opportunity. If the fight is confirmed, it would represent one final blockbuster event for one of boxing's greatest champions before retirement. Boxing Wiretap will continue bringing the latest boxing news, heavyweight boxing analysis and reaction as Usyk's farewell fight takes shape.