Oleksandr Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, is aiming to have his man make history after he faces Daniel Dubois.
The Ukrainian is currently unified heavyweight champion of the world following two convincing victories over Anthony Joshua. With failed negotiations to make an undisputed fight against Tyson Fury now in the rearview mirror, he will face his first mandatory challenger in Daniel Dubois.
The fight will be forced to purse bids this week should a deal not be reached, so the 25-year-old Brit is essentially nailed on as Usyk’s next opponent.
Asked by Gareth A Davies if they would revisit the Fury talks if Usyk is victorious, Krassyuk said that was indeed the plan.
“Yes. Definitely yes. This is the game plan. This is what we have in mind and we would probably fight him earlier but we need to comply with the rules with the WBA.”
There was perhaps no question that they would pursue the four-belt clash again, however Krassyuk is realistic in its chances.
Currently, the talks surrounding it are of a four-man heavyweight tournament also including Joshua versus Deontay Wilder on the bill.
It’s something Krassyuk is onboard with, pointing to ‘The Rumble in the Jungle’ as a similarly unrealistic proposition that would come good. He believes it’s possible, but won’t be easy.
“Would I say it’s very easy to make it? Definitely not. It’s extremely complicated.”
“There won’t be any obstacles from our side. This is what I can promise … Usyk’s team has always been and will probably always be the easiest team to deal with.”
He says Fury’s entire team are ‘difficult’ in negotiations, believing that if there will be one sticking point in making the fight it will be from the WBC champion’s side.
“Not just Tyson Fury is [difficult], but Tyson Fury and his representatives. Including his lawyer, including his promoter, everyone is complicated.”
For it not to happen, Krassyuk said it would be disrespectful to fans – and it would be hard to find one who disagrees.
Fury is due out in summer with an opponent yet to be announced. As for Usyk, fans will know on May 3 if the Dubois talks are headed for purse bids.