Shock: Usyk’s Manager Reveals – This Is Usyk’s Last Fight Before Retirement

As Oleksandr Usyk—undisputed heavyweight champion of the world—stands on the brink of retirement, speculation mounts over the monumental final act of his illustrious career. Following a devastating fifth-round knockout of Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium to reclaim the undisputed heavyweight titles on July 19, 2025, Usyk hinted that only one bout remains before he hangs up his gloves. The boxing world now watches eagerly: who will be worthy of that swan song?

Three contenders have surfaced from Usyk’s selective shortlist—Tyson Fury, Joseph Parker, and Jake Paul—each representing wildly different legacies and risks. Against that backdrop, Usyk’s camp has confirmed that while a traditional boxing match with Paul is off the table, a crossover MMA showdown could be the game‑changing spectacle that elevates his farewell to global mainstream prominence.

This article will delve into the context and implications of Usyk’s decision—his legacy-defining final fight, the clash between tradition and spectacle, and the possibilities each opponent represents. Drawing from credible sources and enriched with creative yet plausible narrative, we explore how Usyk might engineer a finale that cements his place among the sport’s legends.

The Final Countdown: One Fight Left

Usyk publicly reaffirmed that he expects no more than one or two fights before retirement. He stated, “I have no more than two fights left,” and pledged to make his exit monumental. Following the Dubois rematch, he made it clear: this next one will likely be the last.

His dominant second KO over Dubois reestablished him as the first two-time undisputed heavyweight champion since Muhammad Ali. At 38, with Olympic gold and multiple unified belts in two weight classes, leaving now would allow him to retire undefeated and atop the sport.

But the call for a grand finale remains—and choosing the right opponent could define the narrative of his entire departure.

The Shortlist: Three Roads to One Last Fight

Tyson Fury – The Trilogy Dream

Tyson Fury, fresh from multiple retirements, remains one of boxing’s most compelling challengers. After two defeats to Usyk—one by split decision, the other unanimous—he has teased a trilogy, possibly back at Wembley. That match holds high narrative appeal: redemption, rivalry, and commercial viability in equal measure.

For Usyk, facing Fury again is sports punctuation—writing the final paragraph of a storied rivalry with polish.

Joseph Parker – Mandatory Sport Integrity

Joseph Parker serves as WBO’s mandatory challenger. Despite no active contract talks, he has positioned himself as the most legitimate boxing-only option, especially after his recent wins and Parker’s comedic “Take On Me” beachside call-out to Usyk. Choosing Parker would affirm Usyk’s respect for sport integrity and regulatory obligation.

Yet whispers suggest Parker could be passed over if Usyk opts for a more lucrative or attention-grabbing event.

Jake Paul – The Unlikely, Yet Lucrative Wildcard

Jake Paul, a YouTube star turned boxer, stands out as the wildcard. Despite being a controversial figure and lacking the pedigree of Fury or Parker, his inclusion speaks to entertainment value as much as sporting merit.

Usyk’s team has made it plain: no boxing ring for Paul—but an MMA cage? Now that is viable. The crossover format levels the playing field somewhat: Paul brings MMA familiarity; Usyk brings adaptability.

Team director Sergey Lapin said:

“We’re not talking about a boxing match… in MMA, the odds are more balanced. Jake has some experience, while Oleksandr would have to adapt quickly… could become a massive show.”

Still, former promoter Alex Krassyuk cautioned that it would be “homicide, even in a cage,” but admitted the financial lure is undeniable.

Stakes and Strategy: What Each Option Means

Legacy vs. Payout

• Fury: Sport-first farewell with legacy-driven closure and fan respect. Big gate and storytelling potential.

• Parker: Methodical, dignified exit respecting boxing orders. Modest commercial returns, strong legacy alignment.

• Paul: Exit as spectacle artist. Potential blockbuster earnings, viral hype, risk of damaging legacy credibility.

Adapting to MMA

The MMA proposal opens Usyk to new challenges—and a broader audience. It signals versatility and a willingness to push boxing’s boundaries. That said, the physical risk is higher and the legacy gamble is considerable.

Fans and pundits are divided. Some see it as refreshing; others see it as pandering to spectacle. It would certainly be among the most talked-about end-of-career fights in recent memory.

Negotiations & Timing

• Fury: Rumored return in 2026 could align.

• Paul: Background talks for early 2026 MMA are underway.

• Parker: WBO order in place, but no negotiations yet.

Imaginative Narrative: Crafting Usyk’s Swan Song

Scene setting: Usyk stands in the ring at Wembley—victorious, reflective, and aware of what comes next. The question is not if, but how he seals his legacy.

• Option 1 – Fury: A gritty, emotional trilogy under Wembley lights where both legends clash again—one last time.

• Option 2 – Parker: The clean goodbye—a fortress of respect, tradition, and honor—Usyk bows out undefeated and above reproach.

• Option 3 – Paul (MMA): The cinematic finish. Usyk enters the cage—encased in MMA presentation—grateful, curious, and poised to show the world he still commands the fight game, even beyond boxing.

The narrative arc: from Olympic champion, to undisputed sovereign, to boundary-pushing farewell artist. The youngest fans remember the viral highlight; the old guard remembers technique, discipline, and a peaceful exit.

The Choice of a Champion

Oleksandr Usyk’s final fight isn’t just about one last punch—it’s the capstone to a career that spans Olympic gold, unified dominance in two divisions, and the rare ideal exit while still undefeated.

By narrowing the choice to Fury, Parker, and Paul, he holds the scepter of his legacy. Does he choose ceremony, compliance, or cash and chaos?

Whatever he picks, his final moment will instantly define the tone of his departure—either a testament to tradition, a bow to sport duty, or a breaking-of-rules spectacle worthy of his boundaryless career.

The boxing world awaits the answer—and the action.