Heavyweight boxing legend Oleksandr Usyk is reportedly lining up a blockbuster showdown with American powerhouse Deontay Wilder, with plans to stage the fight in front of a world-record crowd of nearly 150,000 spectators.
Usyk's Comeback and Retirement Timeline
The Ukrainian champion, who last fought in July 2025 when he stopped Britain's Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, has been enjoying time with his family but was recently spotted back in training. The 38-year-old had previously hinted that 2026 could be his final year in professional boxing, but he has since clarified his plans.
In a recent statement, Usyk revealed, "I train every day... I train with the goal of entering the ring next year and, with God's help, winning." He then set a clearer deadline for his career, adding, "I will box until I am 41. And then I will build a Sports Academy and train there."
The Path to a Historic Event in San Francisco
While a domestic clash with Fabio Wardley seemed likely after Wardley's October win over Joseph Parker, Usyk surprised the boxing world by vacating his WBO title shortly afterwards. His focus now appears to be on legacy-defining fights, with former WBC champion Deontay Wilder firmly in his sights.
This potential mega-fight is being targeted as the centrepiece of an ambitious event spearheaded by YouTube, part of its 'Iconic' series. Organisers plan to transform San Francisco's Civic Center Plaza into a vast open-air boxing arena, with the ring positioned before City Hall. In a move set to delight fans, the majority of tickets are expected to be offered free of charge.
Breaking an 85-Year-Old Record
The project aims to smash the long-standing attendance record for a boxing event, which was set in August 1941 when 135,132 fans watched Tony Zale fight Billy Pryor in Milwaukee. The new target is an unprecedented 150,000.
Ed Pereira, chief of IVB, explained the vision to the Mail, stating, "It’s all about creating a cultural moment... a cultural moment for the world." He emphasised the partnership with YouTube, saying it elevates the project and aims to make it accessible to both hardcore and casual fans.
While the fight card is not yet finalised, promoters are keen to secure a fighter of Usyk's calibre. Having already secured two victories each over Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, a win against Wilder would see Usyk add another iconic name to his remarkable resume in what could be one of the most spectacular settings in sporting history.
