As his career enters final chapter, Oleksandr Usyk targets David Benavidez for a cruiserweight return
A change of division
Usyk’s next move may take him away from heavyweight. Adviser Sergey Lapin says the Ukrainian is looking at a return to cruiserweight in 2027, with David Benavidez as a target.
Usyk had described his intended farewell as a “last dance,” and it was expected to happen at heavyweight. Lapin’s account points instead to a move down in weight.
A final career chapter
Lapin said Usyk intends to pursue undisputed champion status again at cruiserweight. He linked the proposed year, 2027, to the closing period of the boxer’s career. The division holds particular significance for Usyk: it was where he first won all the belts. Lapin said the aim is to end his career as undisputed champion there.
Record and past achievements
Usyk has been undisputed twice and remains undefeated across 25 fights. His record includes two victories each over Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois. A return to cruiserweight would therefore bring him back to a division in which he has already achieved undisputed status. The stated plan is to do so again before retiring.
Key points
- Sergey Lapin says Usyk is planning a cruiserweight return in 2027.
- David Benavidez is a target for Usyk at cruiserweight.
- Lapin describes 2027 as the final chapter of Usyk’s career.
- Usyk is undefeated after 25 fights and has been undisputed twice.