Oleksandr Usyk is reportedly on the verge of changing weight divisions for a high-profile showdown with American David Benavidez. The Ukrainian boxer's team has already outlined a potential scenario for the final stage of his career, which could return him to the division where he previously achieved historic success. Information regarding these plans emerged in the media, citing Ring Magazine insider Mike Coppinger.
Conversation in Riyadh: What the Team Director Shared
According to Sport RBC.UA, journalist Mike Coppinger spoke with Usyk's team director, Sergey Lapin, in Riyadh. During the conversation, the Ukrainian boxer's representative discussed plans to return to the cruiserweight division. This exact conversation became the starting point for publications about a potential new chapter in the champion's career.
Scenario: Vacant IBF Title First, Then Unification
According to talkSPORT, Usyk could first contend for the vacant IBF cruiserweight title and then set his sights on an unification bout with David Benavidez. Such a scenario, sources estimate, would allow the Ukrainian to once again contend for the undisputed world championship in this weight class. It is important to emphasize that at this stage, these are the team's plans rather than an officially agreed-upon fight.
Return to the Division of Historic Success
Moving back to cruiserweight would mark a return to the division where the Ukrainian already achieved historic results. In 2018, Usyk became the undisputed world champion by defeating Russia's Murat Gassiev in the World Boxing Super Series final. Afterward, the Ukrainian moved up to heavyweight, where, according to sources, he also collected all the major championship belts. Now, he may attempt to repeat this achievement after returning to a lighter weight class.
Benavidez and Potential Bout Timeline
David Benavidez, meanwhile, is one of the leading cruiserweight boxers and holds the WBA and WBO championship titles. Usyk's potential fight with the American could reportedly take place in 2027. Thus, if this scenario materializes, fans could witness an unification clash between the division's two strongest competitors.
Caveats: Plans, Not an Agreement
The editorial team notes that currently this information relies on statements from team representatives and insider data, rather than an official bout announcement. Neither the date, venue, nor the status of the match as an officially agreed contest has been confirmed. Until a formal announcement is made by the promotion and boxing organizations, all of the above should be regarded as the intentions and plans of the parties.
