Turki Alalshikh targets Oleksandr Usyk vs David Benavidez for 2027

Plan emerges after David Benavidez stops Gilberto Ramirez for cruiserweight belts as a future move to heavyweight takes shape

Turki Alalshikh is targeting a future heavyweight fight between Oleksandr Usyk and David Benavidez for 2027. The plan follows Benavidez’s stoppage win over Gilberto Ramirez to claim cruiserweight belts in his first fight at 200 pounds.

A potential jump to heavyweight would represent another step up, with Usyk currently holding a leading position in the division.

Usyk is set to return on May 23, when he faces Rico Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza.

Benavidez’s immediate plans have not been confirmed following his win, though his path at cruiserweight is not straightforward. A fight with Jai Opetaia has already run into sanctioning issues, leaving fewer clear options at the weight.

.@Turki_alalshikh wants to make Oleksandr Usyk vs. David Benavidez for the heavyweight championship in 2027, @ringmagazine has learned. Benavidez moved up to cruiserweight Saturday and won two titles with a KO victory of Zurdo Ramirez. Usyk returns May 23 to defend his Ring… pic.twitter.com/vd9NLHeU1X

— Mike Coppinger (@MikeCoppinger) May 4, 2026

That situation has drawn attention toward a potential move to heavyweight sooner than expected.

Benavidez is expected to stay active following his cruiserweight debut, with further fights likely at or above 200 pounds as he builds toward bigger opportunities. His move through multiple weight classes has kept him in position for high-profile matchups.

No agreement has been finalised, and the fight remains a target rather than a confirmed bout. The timeline allows both fighters to remain active while a potential heavyweight meeting is developed.

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