{
  "id": 17459148,
  "title": "Usyk targets Benavidez fight before retirement",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/31/usyk-targets-benavidez-fight-before-retirement-17459148",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-31T19:44:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch",
    "slug": "punch",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/usyk-targets-benavidez-fight-before-retirement/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ukrainian heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk is planning to return to the cruiserweight division in 2027, with a potential fight against David Benavidez on the horizon, according to his adviser Sergey Lapin. Usyk, 39, had previously mentioned he wanted a final fight, describing it as his \"last dance\". The Ukrainian, whose professional record stands at 25 wins from 25 fights, previously held the undisputed heavyweight title and is considered one of boxing's greatest fighters. Lapin revealed that Usyk's immediate goal is to secure a vacant cruiserweight world title before pursuing a unification clash with Benavidez, who currently holds both WBO and WBA cruiserweight titles. If the proposed showdown takes place, Usyk could potentially become undisputed cruiserweight champion for a second time and conclude his illustrious boxing career with another historic achievement.",
  "summary": "Heavyweight star Oleksandr Usyk is targeting a return to the cruiserweight division in 2027 for a showdown against David Benavidez before he retires. Read More: https://punchng.com/usyk-targets-benavidez-fight-before-retirement/",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}