Is Deontay Wilder fighting Oleksandr Usyk?

Negotiations for a fight between Deontay Wilder and Oleksandr Usyk are described as 'very promising,' indicating a high likelihood of the bout occurring.

What title is Oleksandr Usyk defending?

Oleksandr Usyk is the unified WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight champion and is permitted a voluntary defense of these titles.

What is Deontay Wilder's prediction for a fight against Usyk?

Deontay Wilder predicts a sensational upset victory against Oleksandr Usyk, famously stating 'and the new!'

Home / Sports / Wilder: Usyk fight looks promising, 'and the new!'

Wilder: Usyk fight looks promising, 'and the new!'

12 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Negotiations between Deontay Wilder and Oleksandr Usyk are progressing positively.
Wilder vows to achieve a sensational upset victory over Usyk.
Usyk, the unified heavyweight champion, is considering Wilder as a voluntary defense opponent.

Wilder: Usyk fight looks promising, 'and the new!'

Deontay Wilder has provided an optimistic update on the ongoing negotiations for a highly anticipated heavyweight showdown against Oleksandr Usyk. Speaking at IBA Pro 13 in Dubai, Wilder described the talks as "very promising" and expressed his determination to secure a "sensational upset" victory.

Usyk, who remains the unified WBC, WBA, and IBF heavyweight champion, has been granted permission for a voluntary defense. His team is reportedly favoring a fight with Wilder, making a bout between the two powerhouses increasingly likely, with the USA being a probable location. Wilder emphasized his strong mental readiness for this challenge.

Despite recent losses, Wilder is motivated to prove his doubters wrong. He stated that the opportunity to face Usyk is a "blessing" and assured fans that the fight will be an unforgettable spectacle, cryptically hinting at a title change with "'and the new!'", signalling his ambition.