Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is reportedly edging closer to a blockbuster title defence against former WBC champion Deontay Wilder, following approval from the World Boxing Council (WBC) for a voluntary defence.
WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman has confirmed that Usyk formally requested permission to make a voluntary defence against a ranked contender—a request that has now been granted. Wilder currently sits 13th in the WBC top 15, making him eligible for the bout.
Usyk, who holds the WBC, IBF and WBA heavyweight titles, would be making his first defence since stopping Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in July. The potential clash with Wilder is expected to be one of the most high-profile heavyweight fights of 2026.
Sulaiman reiterated the WBC’s position, stating that Wilder remains a welcome challenger.
“Absolutely we are hoping to see Usyk back in the ring,” Sulaiman said. “He requested a voluntary defence, which was granted, and we are now waiting for the details of his upcoming fight.
“Deontay Wilder was WBC champion for five years. He is a tremendous force with great punching power. He is ranked by the WBC, so he is eligible and welcome to challenge Usyk.”
Usyk has also expressed his desire for the fight to take place in the United States, which would mark his first bout on American soil since 2019. The Ukrainian believes a showdown with Wilder would further cement his legacy in the heavyweight division.
Speaking on the Ready to Fight platform, Usyk said:
“First of all, it’s the USA — I want to box in America. Secondly, Wilder has been at the top for the last 10 years. This is about sporting interest.
“In the ‘big three’, there were Joshua, Fury and Wilder. I beat Joshua twice, I beat Fury twice, and one unbeaten one remains.”
Wilder, who enjoyed a lengthy reign as WBC heavyweight champion, last held the title before losing it to Tyson Fury in their 2020 rematch. The American has since indicated renewed motivation to return to the top of the division.
While no official date or venue has been announced, both camps have hinted that discussions are progressing, with expectations of a formal announcement in the coming weeks.
