Oleksandr Usyk Has Three Prime Years Left in Boxing Career, Says his promoter

Oleksandr Usyk's promoter, Alexander Krassyuk, is confident that the IBF, IBO, WBA, WBO heavyweight champion has a solid three years of prime fighting left in his career. Usyk, who gained prominence as the undisputed cruiserweight world champion in 2018, is now on the cusp of potentially achieving the same status in the heavyweight division.

Scheduled for a showdown on February 17 in Saudi Arabia, Usyk is set to face off against WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, with a two-way rematch clause embedded in their agreement.

Given Usyk's age of 36, questions have emerged regarding the duration of his continued presence in the boxing arena. Some speculate that he might consider retirement, especially if a two-fight series with Fury concludes.

However, Krassyuk dismisses such notions, expressing confidence in Usyk's longevity.

"He’s 36 now and still has three years to go at his best. The only issue or concern we have is the health issue so that could be a problem. If his body is still ready to fight, then I don’t think he’s going to quit," Krassyuk stated in an interview with Betway.

Krassyuk, who has been closely associated with Usyk since his professional debut in 2013, emphasized the champion's youthful spirit and his lack of experience in contemplating retirement. Drawing a parallel with former heavyweight champion Vitali Klitschko, Krassyuk highlighted that even after a four-year retirement, Klitschko returned to win the WBC belt, motivated by a genuine passion for the sport.

Reflecting on Klitschko's example, Krassyuk noted, "The reason was not for the money but because he was missing the sport. He was a politician already and a businessman, but he missed it so much and despite being over 50, he is still in training. The Mayor of Kyiv still misses it, and when we speak about boxing, I still see the inspiration coming from Vitali." As Usyk prepares for the defining clash with Fury, his promoter envisions a future where the champion's dedication to the sport and his youthful energy will likely keep him in the boxing ring for a few more impactful years.