Current State of the Heavyweight Division and Anticipated Future Bouts

Oleksandr Usyk solidified his position as the premier heavyweight boxer globally by securing a points victory over Tyson Fury in their recent rematch. This triumph creates a compelling array of potential matchups for 2025 and prompts inquiries regarding the careers of several prominent boxing figures. Questions arise such as whether a bout between Fury and Anthony Joshua will materialize, or if Daniel Dubois will have an opportunity for a rematch against Usyk. BBC Sport examines the current landscape of the heavyweight division, detailing both confirmed and prospective fights. The upcoming heavyweight world title contest features Daniel Dubois defending his IBF title against Joseph Parker on February 22. This particular fight is anticipated to significantly influence the subsequent matchups for the division’s leading athletes. The undercard for that event includes another notable heavyweight encounter, pitting China’s Zhilei Zhang against the undefeated German Agit Kabayel. This contest is expected to provide considerable insight into Kabayel’s potential at an international competitive standard. Concurrently, veteran boxer Derek Chisora is scheduled to compete against Otto Wallin in Manchester on February 8. The majority of other heavyweight contenders, including the undefeated British champion Fabio Wardley, do not currently have fights scheduled. “No doubt I won the fight” – Fury disputes loss to Usyk. Usyk’s subsequent fight will be considerably influenced by the outcome of the Dubois versus Parker match. The undisputed champion across two weight classes has hinted at a return to the cruiserweight division, though this appears to be driven more by personal preference than by optimal financial considerations. Dubois views himself as the leading contender and is eager for another opportunity against Usyk, following his 2023 defeat to the Ukrainian, which was overshadowed by a contentious decision regarding a low blow. If Dubois defeats Parker, a fight with Usyk might take place in the summer of 2025. Should Parker emerge victorious, Dubois could request a rematch, or Anthony Joshua might become a prospective challenger, given his victory over Parker in 2018. The question of retirement for the 37-year-old Usyk also arises. During an appearance on the 5 Live Boxing with Steve Bunce podcast, Anthony Crolla stated that Usyk has already attained “immortality” within the sport of boxing. Crolla remarked, “He should have put his gloves in the middle of the ring [after beating Fury] and walked away on a massive high.” “I think when [Usyk’s] manager spoke, he seemed certain [Usyk] wouldn’t be retiring.” “I think we’ll see him fighting next year. If he does and Usyk fights Dubois again, he’s expected to win when he’s already stopped him but I think that’s a far harder fight this time.” Fury, aged 36, perceives his career at a pivotal juncture. He has the option to retire or to pursue an all-British contest against his long-standing rival, Joshua. Bunce, who was present at ringside for Saturday’s rematch with Usyk, is of the opinion that Fury will persist in fighting. ‘The Gypsy King’ has previously announced his retirement multiple times during his career, declaring his departure from the sport in April 2022 before rescinding that choice several months later. Regarding Fury, Bunce stated, “We might be closer than ever to seeing him walking away for good.” “I really don’t want to see him coming back at 38 in 18 months’ time. If he’s going to walk away, I want to see him go forever.” A fight with Joshua appears to be the most apparent choice, and with both boxers currently recovering from losses and not holding world titles, this could present an ideal chance for them to finally compete against each other. This represents a significant inquiry. Dubois’ prominence has surged considerably since his victory over Joshua in September. At 27 years old, he stands as one of the youngest top-tier heavyweights. He is younger than nearly all of his immediate competitors, including Fury, Usyk, and Parker. Another British boxer, Moses Itauma, is younger than him. The 19-year-old achieved a first-round stoppage against Demsey McKean on Saturday, delivering a highly impressive display against an opponent who had participated in more than 100 additional rounds and 14 more fights. Itauma will celebrate his 20th birthday on December 28 and, following 25-year-old Johnny Fisher’s difficulties against Dave Allen, has emerged as the next significant prospect in the heavyweight division. Other individuals who believe they can contend include Scotland-based Congolese heavyweight Martin Bakole, the undefeated Australian Justis Huni, and the unbeaten Irishman Thomas Carty. Lawrence Okolie, 31, a former cruiserweight world champion, is another notable contender, having made his presence felt in the heavyweight division with a first-round knockout earlier this month. Anthony Joshua v Tyson Fury Moses Itauma v Fabio Wardley Oleksandr Usyk v Daniel Dubois 2 Johnny Fisher v Lawrence Okolie