Usyk may return to cruiserweight to fight unbeaten world champion
Former undisputed heavyweight world champion Oleksandr Usyk (25-0, 16 KOs) is considering a return to cruiserweight to fight American David Benavidez (32-0, 25 KOs), journalist Mike Coppinger reported on Oct. 30, citing Usyk's manager, Serhii Lapin, who told The Ring about the plans.
Former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk (25-0, 16 KOs) is reportedly mulling a move back down to cruiserweight to take on unbeaten world title holder David Benavidez (32-0, 25 KOs), according to a report by Mike Coppinger on October 30. Usyk's manager, Serhii Lapin, confirmed the details to The Ring. Benavidez, 29, known as the "Mexican Monster," has never lost in his professional career.
Prior to his cruiserweight debut against Cuba's Yunier Dortícos in August 2026, he had twice held super middleweight titles and later became a light heavyweight contender. In August, Benavidez won the WBA and WBO cruiserweight championships by defeating Yunier Dortícos. A potential bout between Usyk and Benavidez is being considered as a way for the Ukrainian to continue his career in 2027.
Benavidez is scheduled to face WBC world champion Michał Cieślak on December 5 in Phoenix, Arizona. On May 23, Usyk had defeated kickboxer Rico Verhoeven by technical knockout in Giza, Egypt, thus defending his WBC heavyweight titles. Earlier this year, Deontay Wilder was mentioned as a likely next opponent for Usyk, but negotiations reportedly stalled.
Written by urgent.news from New Voice of Ukraine's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
