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Oleksandr Usyk talks with Deontay Wilder ‘dead’ as new potential opponent emerges

Negotiations for a showdown between Oleksandr Usyk and Deontay Wilder have reportedly been abandoned, with both heavyweights now being linked to alternative opponents. Usyk initially expressed his interest in facing ‘The Bronze Bomber’ towards the end of last year, only…

By Oscar Pick · Boxing News Online

Published: Friday, 9 October 2026 at 7:43 AM

Key Things to Know

Negotiations for a fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Deontay Wilder have reportedly collapsed.
Wilder is being explored to fight former cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia on December 11 in Cardiff.
David Benavidez has targeted a potential clash with Usyk if a 2027 Opetaia fight cannot be made.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Negotiations for a heavyweight fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Deontay Wilder have reportedly been abandoned, according to boxing journalist Mike Coppinger. Both fighters are now pursuing alternative matchups following the collapse of talks under Dana White's Zuffa Boxing banner.

Wilder is now being explored as an opponent for former cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia on the Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua undercard on December 11 in Cardiff. Meanwhile, unified cruiserweight champion David Benavidez has expressed interest in moving up to heavyweight to fight Usyk in 2027 if a bout against Opetaia fails to materialize.

Read the full article on Boxing News Online

Oleksandr Usyk talks with Deontay Wilder ‘dead’ as new potential opponent emerges

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