Co-manager Shelly Finkel says Wilder would welcome a showdown after Oleksandr Usyk named the former WBC heavyweight champion as his preferred final opponent
Deontay Wilder’s camp has welcomed Oleksandr Usyk’s interest in a heavyweight showdown, with co-manager Shelly Finkel confirming the former WBC champion would embrace the opportunity if terms can be agreed. The response comes days after Usyk identified Wilder as his preferred opponent for what is expected to be the final fight of his career.
“If the terms were right, Deontay would welcome the opportunity to fight Usyk,” co-manager Shelly Finkel said to Sky Sports.
“Usyk is a great champion, and it would be an honor to fight him.”
The comments are the first public response from Wilder’s camp since Usyk’s team revealed its plans, and they align with the American’s own long-standing interest in the matchup.
Earlier this year, Wilder explained why facing Usyk remained one of his biggest career goals.
“He’s one of the best in the era. I do need him to accomplish what I need to accomplish,” said Deontay.
“It can happen, and it will happen. As long as I have the confidence to do what I have to do, it will happen.
“I must accomplish what I set forth in the beginning of my career.”
Usyk enters the proposed fight with a perfect professional record after defeating kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven in his final world title defense. His decision to relinquish three of the four major heavyweight belts allows the division to move forward while giving the 39-year-old freedom to pursue one last marquee bout.
A third fight with Tyson Fury is not expected. Sergey Lapin, CEO of Usyk’s promotional company Ready To Fight, recently said he sees little reason for another meeting after Usyk defeated Fury twice.
While Usyk has previously spoken about his dream of ending his career in Ukraine, his team believes a fight with Wilder would most likely take place in the United States, with Saudi Arabia also remaining a possible destination for one of boxing’s biggest remaining heavyweight attractions.