Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has made it clear that Deontay Wilder is top of his list for his next fight, calling the American the most interesting option available.
Usyk, 38, became a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion in July after stopping Daniel Dubois at Wembley. He later vacated his WBO belt, which saw Britain’s Fabio Wardley elevated to full champion.
Speaking to Boxing King Media, Usyk said Wilder remains a major name despite his recent struggles.
“I continue fighting next year. I want to fight Deontay Wilder. I think it’s interesting,” he said.
He added: “He is a world champion guy. A very famous and strong guy. One of the great heavyweights of the last 10 years.”
Wilder, 40, has battled to regain form since losing twice to Joseph Parker and suffering another stoppage at the hands of Zhilei Zhang. After more than a year out, he returned in June with a low-key win over Tyrrell Anthony Herndon.
Usyk could still secure a voluntary defence if negotiations move quickly, as other contenders are already tied up with mandatory fights. The WBC, IBF and WBA all have eliminators and title fights scheduled between December and January.
The Ukrainian, who has beaten Tyson Fury, Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua in back-to-back major bouts, has said he intends to fight for only two more years before retiring. The Olympic gold medallist previously became undisputed champion at cruiserweight before moving up to dominate the heavyweight division.
