Speaking to WBN, Sergey Lapin, Usyk’s Team Director, confirmed the long-term strategy behind the matchup when asked if Wilder’s WBC legacy played a factor in the champion’s choice of opponent.
Usyk’s Vision, Six Years in the Making
“Yes, the WBC factor certainly plays a role. Oleksandr had the idea of boxing Wilder in the USA as far back as 2020. Unfortunately, at that time, the circumstances didn’t come together,” Lapin told World Boxing News.
He continued: Not everything depended on us, and the level of organizational readiness wasn’t there to deliver the fight the way it deserved.
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“Now the situation is different, both in terms of scale and possibilities.”
This insight from Lapin highlights that Usyk’s approach is intentional and history-focused.
The Ukrainian champion is not reacting to current opportunities; he has actively targeted Wilder as a high-stakes challenge that aligns with his ambitions in the heavyweight division.
Why the Wilder Fight Matters
Legacy: As a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion, Usyk seeks only the toughest challenges. Wilder’s five-year WBC reign, ten defenses, and devastating knockout power make him the ideal test.
Historical Significance: A voluntary defense against Wilder in the USA continues a tradition of monumental heavyweight matchups, attracting global attention to both fighters.
Strategic Planning: Unlike opportunistic or reactive matchups, Usyk’s vision for this fight has been in motion for six years, demonstrating a deliberate, long-term strategy rarely seen in modern boxing.
Current Status and Timing
Negotiations are progressing, and Wilder has indicated willingness to engage in the clash. All signals point toward a spring 2026 showdown on American soil.
While the exact venue and date remain under wraps, this exclusive confirms the fight is the result of years of planning rather than a spontaneous call-out.
For fans and analysts tracking the heavyweight division, Lapin’s confirmation adds clarity: Usyk vs Wilder is a career-defining moment for both athletes.
The matchup is not only a test of skill and power but a legacy-driven event with global significance.
Every decision, from location to timing, is designed to preserve the sporting logic and maximize the historical impact of the bout.
This is the most definitive confirmation yet that Usyk has his eyes on a monumental challenge, and the Wilder fight represents the next chapter in modern heavyweight history.
