At this stage of his career, the question is no longer whether Oleksandr Usyk is a great champion — that much is obvious. The real question is: who’s left that dares to challenge him?
Since dominating the cruiserweight division, Usyk has silenced every skeptic in the heavyweight ranks. He defeated Anthony Joshua twice, outclassed Derek Chisora, weathered controversy before stopping Daniel Dubois twice, and then solidified his historic supremacy by dethroning Tyson Fury twice in a monumental unification bout.
It’s true that the heavyweight division has seen more competitive eras than the one we’re in today. But it’s always difficult — even unfair — to compare different periods: styles evolve, bodies change, sports science progresses, and the contexts are radically different.
Of course, I would’ve loved to see Usyk take on the Klitschko brothers, whose methodical dominance defined a generation, or Evander Holyfield, whose journey strikingly resembles Usyk’s — becoming the undisputed cruiserweight champion before conquering the heavies. And what about a dream matchup between Usyk and prime Mike Tyson, Joe Frazier, “Big” George Foreman, or Muhammad Ali? Incredible fantasy fights… but that’s all they are — imagined matchups.
We’re in a different era now, and Usyk has the duty to face the best fighters of his time. He’s done so brilliantly up to this point, but the question remains: who still represents a credible — and historic — challenge for him?
Here are six names worth serious consideration:
1.Agit Kabayel (26-0, 18 KOs)
The undefeated German heavyweight of Kurdish descent is quiet but highly effective. He shocked everyone by stopping Arslanbek Makhmudov, then delivered a boxing masterclass against Zhilei Zhang. Kabayel stands out for his footwork, sharp jab, defensive skills, and most notably, his precise, punishing body shots — a lost art in the heavyweight division, but one that could trouble Usyk. This would be a high-level tactical duel.
Photo: Ready To Fight – Agit Kabayel
What’s at stake: Proving that Kabayel isn’t just undefeated — he’s unavoidable.
2. Joseph Parker (36-3, 24 KOs)
The former WBO champion is experiencing a true renaissance. Since 2023, he has not only defeated Canadian Simon Kean and ended Zhilei Zhang’s undefeated streak, but also neutralized Deontay Wilder’s power and stopped the dangerous Martin Bakole. Parker is explosive, experienced, and in the best shape of his life. Parker vs. Usyk would be a clash of seasoned veterans, technically sound, with subtle strategic nuances. Parker deserves this shot.
3. Martin Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs)
Low profile, high danger. Bakole has beaten Carlos Takam, dominated Tony Yoka, schooled Jared Anderson, and emerged as one of the most dangerous dark horses in the division. His heavy, powerful, unpredictable style can trouble anyone. More intriguingly, he’s loudly claimed to have outboxed Usyk (even dropped him) during sparring in multiple training camps.
Photo: Boxing News – Martin Bakole
True or not, it adds intrigue.
What if sparring was just the prelude to the real thing?
4. Bakhodir Jalolov (15-0, 14 KOs)
The Uzbek giant is a pure product of the Soviet school: an Olympian, undefeated, with nearly every fight won by knockout. Jalolov hasn’t been tested yet against top-tier pros, but he’s advancing fast, and his mix of size, power, and technical discipline is formidable. He may not be well known, but you can bet Usyk’s team knows exactly who he is — and likely prefers to stay far away. The risk/reward ratio just isn’t worth it.
5. Zhilei Zhang (27-3-1, 22 KOs)
Despite recent losses to Kabayel and Parker, the Chinese southpaw remains dangerous. His punching power, composure, size, and Olympic pedigree make him a credible opponent. And a clash between two elite southpaws would be a rarity. If Zhang bounces back with a significant win, he’ll be relevant again in no time. That said, I think it would ultimately be a fairly easy fight for Usyk due to his superior mobility — a winnable bout for a champion who’s never really taken the easy route.
Photo: Sports Illustrated – Zhilei Zhang
6. Fabio Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KOs)
Still a little green for Usyk? Probably — actually, definitely! But Wardley is young, powerful, tough, and exciting. His fights against Frazer Clarke, David Adeleye, and Justis Huni showed his grit and potential. He also has the charisma to sell a big event, especially in the UK. For Wardley, this would be a godsend — the biggest payday of his career.
Conclusion
Usyk has nothing left to prove. He’s collected every belt, beaten the best, and established himself as one of the most technically gifted boxers of his generation — across all weight classes.
But history loves active champions.
And as long as there are stylistic puzzles, unbeaten contenders, or unfinished chapters, there will always be a reason to ask:
Who’s next for Usyk?
