Oleksandr Usyk: The champion rules out fighting Moses Itauma but plans to return in 2026

Oleksandr Usyk says he will continue fighting for another two years and plans to return to the ring in 2026, but has ruled out a bout with British heavyweight Moses Itauma.

Usyk, 38, stopped Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July to become the two-time undisputed heavyweight champion.

The Ukrainian, who also previously held all four recognized world titles at cruiserweight, had previously hinted that he would fight just one more time before retiring.

However, the pound-for-pound star appears to have reversed that decision.

“I’m going to fight until I’m 41,” Usyk told Ready to Fight. “Then I will build a sports academy, train there and train others.”

Usyk said he returned to training after being sidelined with a back injury that led to the postponement of his fight with WBO mandatory challenger Joseph Parker.

He added that he would return “God willing” next year but ruled out 20-year-old Chatham fighter Itauma as a potential opponent.

“No, I’m not going to fight Itauma,” Usyk said. “He’s a young man – he’s always teasing me. He said himself that he doesn’t hit his grandparents.

“I can’t say who exactly [I’ll fight next] Because negotiations are continuing. “I’d be lying if I gave you a name.”

Itauma extended his unbeaten record to 13 victories, including 11 by knockout, by stopping former world title challenger Dillian Whyte within two minutes in August.

The WBA has ordered its minor champion, Kubrat Pulev, to fight Itauma next, although the Bulgarian is keen to defend his belt against Murat Gassiev in Dubai in December.