Usyk Backs Joshua to Become Future Undisputed Champ

The pound-for-pound champion, Oleksandr Usyk, has expressed strong confidence in his training partner, Anthony Joshua, to emerge as the future undisputed heavyweight champion. Usyk, who has competed against both Tyson Fury and Joshua, anticipates Joshua will defeat Fury in their highly awaited bout.

Usyk stated his intention to observe the potential fight between Fury and Joshua, predicting an "AJ win" and proclaiming him the future undisputed champion. This prediction comes as Usyk trains with Joshua, who returned to the ring following a January incident.

Joshua has been instrumental in Usyk's preparation for his upcoming fight against Rico Verhoeven. Concurrently, Usyk has been aiding Joshua in his emotional comeback to professional boxing, reinforcing their partnership.

Usyk's assessment is informed by his previous encounters with both Fury and Joshua. Notably, Joshua came close to defeating Usyk in their rematch, losing by a split decision. This experience adds weight to Usyk's perspective on Joshua's capabilities.

Although the fight is not yet officially confirmed, a clash between Fury and Joshua is widely anticipated by the end of 2026. Both fighters have publicly expressed their desire to face each other, with Fury specifically calling out Joshua after his recent victory.

Fans remain hopeful for this showdown, recalling past instances where such matches were postponed. One such instance involved a planned 2026 fight that was canceled due to Joshua's hospitalization. Currently, Joshua is expected to have a preliminary match before facing Fury, likely in late 2026 or early 2027.