Oleksandr Usyk’s ‘motivation’ questioned as promoter suggests ‘bigger’ fight for boxing return

Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian boxing sensation and reigning undisputed heavyweight champion, is once again at the center of boxing’s hottest debates. While fans anticipate his next move, speculation has grown surrounding his true motivation for upcoming fights. With potential bouts against Joseph Parker or Fabio Wardley looming, some insiders—including top promoter Eddie Hearn—suggest that these fights may not provide Usyk with the drive or financial reward he seeks. Instead, Hearn has hinted that a showdown with rising star Moses Itauma could be the “bigger” fight boxing needs.

Usyk’s Current Position in Heavyweight Boxing

Few fighters in history have achieved what Oleksandr Usyk has managed. From his days as a dominant cruiserweight champion to his stunning victories at heavyweight, Usyk has cemented himself as one of boxing’s greatest technicians. His unmatched footwork, precise southpaw stance, and high boxing IQ have carried him to victories over some of the sport’s biggest names, including Anthony Joshua—twice.

Currently holding the undisputed heavyweight crown, Usyk stands at the pinnacle of the division. Yet, with greatness comes difficult choices. Who should the Ukrainian champion fight next?

Injuries and Delays: Why the Timeline Matters

Following his emphatic knockout victory over Daniel Dubois earlier this summer, Usyk suffered injuries that temporarily sidelined him. These setbacks gave the champion an extension to negotiate his next fight. In the meantime, the WBO ordered Usyk to defend his titles against either Joseph Parker, the Kiwi powerhouse, or Fabio Wardley, a rising British contender.

On paper, both Parker and Wardley present intriguing challenges. But according to industry insiders, neither matchup truly excites Usyk—or the broader boxing world.

Eddie Hearn Questions Usyk’s ‘Motivation’

Promoter Eddie Hearn, who has worked with Usyk in his mega-bouts against Anthony Joshua, has been vocal about the Ukrainian champion’s mindset. Hearn raised doubts about Usyk’s motivation to face Joseph Parker, pointing out that the financial reward and prestige might not be enough.

In Hearn’s words:

“If I had (Oleksandr) Usyk, again, I would be saying, ‘What are we actually—do you wanna fight Joseph Parker? Where’s the motivation? It’s a tough fight; the money is not great. And you’re just defending your title. Does it motivate you, that fight?’”

For a fighter who has already reached the pinnacle multiple times, Hearn suggests Usyk may crave something more.

The Joseph Parker Option

Joseph Parker is no stranger to the heavyweight spotlight. A former WBO world champion with an impressive résumé, Parker is a dangerous and well-rounded opponent. His recent resurgence has reignited his ambitions for championship gold, making a fight with Usyk logical from a sanctioning body perspective.

Yet, questions remain. Does Parker carry enough star power to make the bout financially lucrative? Would defeating him enhance Usyk’s legacy in a meaningful way? Critics, including Hearn, argue that while Parker is a quality fighter, the matchup lacks the spark to excite fans on a global scale.

Fabio Wardley: The Rising Contender

The other mandated option is Fabio Wardley, a promising British heavyweight. With his unbeaten record and explosive style, Wardley represents the new wave of heavyweight talent. A clash with Usyk would be the ultimate test for Wardley while offering Usyk a chance to demonstrate his mastery against an ambitious young lion.

Still, much like the Parker scenario, the fight may not deliver the “blockbuster” appeal Usyk seeks. While Wardley is respected in the UK boxing scene, his international profile remains relatively low compared to established names.

The “Bigger” Fight: Moses Itauma

Enter Moses Itauma, the unbeaten teenage sensation who has quickly become one of the most talked-about prospects in boxing. At just 19 years old, Itauma has been touted as a future heavyweight champion, with many comparing his rise to the likes of Mike Tyson.

Eddie Hearn has suggested that Usyk vs. Itauma could represent a “bigger fight” than the Parker or Wardley options. Why? The storyline of a seasoned champion facing a young, undefeated prodigy has all the ingredients of a blockbuster event. For Usyk, it would be an opportunity to cement his dominance against the next generation. For Itauma, it would be the chance of a lifetime to shock the world.

What Motivates Oleksandr Usyk Now?

At this stage of his career, Usyk’s motivations go beyond titles and rankings. Having already unified cruiserweight and now heavyweight divisions, his legacy is secure. The real question is whether financial reward, legacy-building fights, or sheer love of competition drives him forward.

• Financial Motivation: A fight with a major star such as Tyson Fury or Deontay Wilder would deliver bigger paydays than Parker or Wardley.

• Legacy Motivation: Taking on an unbeaten rising star like Itauma could showcase Usyk’s ability to dominate across generations.

• Competitive Motivation: Usyk thrives on challenges, and the idea of testing himself against fresh, hungry opponents may provide the spark he needs.

How Fans View the Situation

Boxing fans are divided. Some argue that Usyk should honor the WBO’s orders and defend against Parker or Wardley, maintaining the integrity of the sport. Others believe Usyk deserves bigger matchups that match his stature as the undisputed champion.

On social media, discussions often highlight Usyk’s status as a generational talent. Many fans feel that seeing him in a “routine defense” doesn’t do justice to his skills. Instead, they want blockbuster fights that elevate the sport and draw mainstream attention.

Eddie Hearn’s Strategy

For Eddie Hearn, the conversation is about spectacle and momentum. He understands that fans crave drama and unpredictability. By pitching a fight against Moses Itauma, Hearn is not only creating buzz but also positioning his young fighter for maximum exposure.

The matchup may not be sanctioned immediately, but it sparks intrigue. Could Itauma skip the traditional slow build and leap into the spotlight against a legend like Usyk?

Usyk’s Legacy in Perspective

No matter who he fights next, Oleksandr Usyk’s legacy is already secure. He is one of only a handful of fighters to become undisputed champion in two weight classes. His victories over Anthony Joshua solidified his status as a pound-for-pound great, and his technical brilliance continues to inspire awe.

Still, the hunger for defining fights remains. For Usyk, every choice matters. The right opponent can enhance his legacy, while a less compelling matchup risks being remembered as a filler fight.

What’s Next for Usyk?

The coming months will reveal much about Usyk’s next move. Will he follow the mandatory route and face Joseph Parker or Fabio Wardley? Or will he pursue a “bigger” spectacle against an unbeaten star like Moses Itauma?

What’s certain is that every option carries risk—and reward. Parker and Wardley are dangerous opponents capable of an upset. Itauma represents the unknown, a young fighter with nothing to lose and everything to gain.

For Usyk, motivation may ultimately come down to what excites him most: defending his crown, chasing the biggest payday, or testing himself against the future of boxing.

Final Thoughts

Oleksandr Usyk’s motivation has become a central topic in boxing conversations. With the WBO ordering him to face Parker or Wardley, and promoters pushing for a clash with Moses Itauma, the Ukrainian champion faces tough decisions.

Eddie Hearn’s comments highlight the tension between obligation and opportunity. Should Usyk stick to the sanctioned route, or should he chase the “bigger” fight that excites fans and cements his legend even further?

Whatever path he chooses, one thing is undeniable: Usyk remains one of boxing’s most fascinating champions, and the world will be watching closely to see where his journey takes him next.