Usyk's final fight will not be against Fury or Verhoeven, says team director

Oleksandr Usyk's team director Sergey Lapin has confirmed the heavyweight champion's final fight will not be against Tyson Fury or Rico Verhoeven, closing the door on two major potential opponents for the Ukrainian's retirement bout.

Usyk recently vacated his WBA, WBC, and IBF heavyweight titles as he prepares for the last fight of his undefeated 25-0 career. His most recent outing was a controversial eleventh-round stoppage of kickboxer Rico Verhoeven in May, a fight that drew criticism for the timing of the referee's intervention.

Lapin dismisses Verhoeven rematch and Fury trilogy

Despite Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh expressing interest in a sequel, Lapin told Sky Sports that a Verhoeven rematch lacks fan appeal: "It's possible. But honestly, I'm not sure it's the fight that fans are looking for today." On a third meeting with Tyson Fury, whom Usyk has beaten twice, Lapin was equally firm: "I don't really see much point in it. Oleksandr has already beaten Tyson Fury twice and answered every question inside the ring. I believe that chapter is closed."

Possible opponents for Usyk's farewell

• Deontay Wilder: Considered a plausible option after negotiations earlier this year fell through.
• Jon Jones: An attractive proposition, but his UFC contract still has six fights remaining despite his recent retirement.
• No other names have been publicly discussed by Team Usyk at this stage.

Lapin indicated that Wilder appears more realistic given prior talks, but stressed that no deal is imminent. Usyk's final fight is expected to take place later this year or early next, with further updates likely after negotiations progress.