What next for heavyweight division after Usyk's win?

Oleksandr Usyk emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle against Rico Verhoeven, successfully defending his heavyweight world titles.

At 39 years of age, Usyk faced significant challenges from Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, ultimately securing a knockout just one second before the end of the 11th round.

This fight posed considerable risks for Usyk, particularly as he squared off against an opponent with only a solitary boxing match under his belt, despite Verhoeven's impressive kickboxing record.

With this victory, Usyk extended his unbeaten run to 25 wins and has expressed his desire to continue competing for two more fights before contemplating retirement.

As numerous challengers eagerly await the opportunity to contest for Usyk's three titles—the WBA 'super', WBC, and IBF—who will be the next contender for this pound-for-pound champion?

Will Kabayel finally get his shot?

Despite holding three heavyweight belts, there is a growing perception that Usyk may not be as motivated by title accumulation, given the limited number of fights remaining in his career.

Mandatory challengers rotate among sanctioning bodies, and the next contender in line is WBC interim champion Agit Kabayel, who is widely recognized as the most deserving fighter awaiting an opportunity.

The unbeaten German has quietly established an impressive resume in recent years, achieving stoppage victories over notable opponents, including Arslanbek Makhmudov, Frank Sanchez, and Zhilei Zhang.

Yet, indications suggest that Usyk may not be inclined to engage in a bout with Kabayel.

Meanwhile, on the undercard in Giza, Sanchez secured a spectacular knockout against Richard Torrez Jr., positioning himself as a potential leading contender for Usyk's IBF title.

The IBF is anticipated to mandate a title defense within the next six months, following the resolution of the WBC obligations.

Additionally, former cruiserweight rival Murat Gassiev, who suffered a defeat to Usyk in their 2018 undisputed clash, currently holds the WBA 'regular' title and ranks high on the list of contenders.

Will Verhoeven box again?

Verhoeven left the ring following his bout against the legendary Usyk with considerable credit.

The kickboxing icon, who dominated as the Glory heavyweight world champion for 12 years, showcased his ability to compete at the highest levels of boxing.

At 37 years old, Verhoeven faces the pressure of time, but additional opportunities certainly await him.

Fellow crossover athlete Francis Ngannou, who narrowly lost to Tyson Fury and suffered a heavy knockout against Anthony Joshua, has set a benchmark for Verhoeven's future.

A rematch with Usyk has been suggested; however, this is unlikely to be Verhoeven's immediate next step, urging him to explore alternative options.

Fury v Joshua is happening... probably

After years filled with convoluted negotiations, setbacks, and public challenges, the much-anticipated Joshua v Fury bout is finally on the verge of realization.

Before this showdown can occur, Joshua must secure victory in his scheduled match against Albania's Kristian Prenga on 25 July.

Fury has indicated his intentions to participate in an interim fight, potentially scheduled for the undercard of the Pierce O'Leary v Mark Chamberlain event in Dublin on 1 August.

Complications could arise, as a single injury, upset, or withdrawal could derail the resurgence of British boxing's most significant rivalry.

Nevertheless, confidence is growing that the Joshua v Fury matchup will materialize in October or November.

Wardley and Dubois set to run it back

Daniel Dubois triumphed over Fabio Wardley in a thrilling contest on 9 May at Manchester's Co-op Live Arena, reclaiming his status as a two-time heavyweight world champion.

Wardley, whose ascent from white-collar boxing to world champion is an inspiring narrative, faced the first loss of his professional career but enhanced his reputation through a valiant effort.

He managed to knock down Dubois twice, including a swift knockdown just 10 seconds into the fight, exhibiting resilience and power to affirm his status as a legitimate world-level heavyweight.

Wardley has already activated his rematch clause.

Should the series end in a tie at 1-1, attention will likely shift towards the potential for a trilogy, a situation that could keep the WBO title in suspense for a significant duration.

Is Hrgovic the next step for Itauma?

Moses Itauma is gaining traction as one of the most exciting British heavyweight prospects in recent memory.

The 21-year-old secured an impressive stoppage victory over Jermaine Franklin in March, marking the first time Franklin had been stopped in 27 professional outings.

A title shot for Itauma is on the horizon, although Usyk has previously dismissed the idea of facing him.

Itauma is expected to make his return on 8 August at London's O2 Arena against a highly ranked opponent, with Croatia's Filip Hrgovic seen as the most likely option.

Hrgovic boasts a commendable pedigree, having earned an Olympic bronze medal in 2016, and recently scored a dominant stoppage against Dave Allen.

This matchup would present a significant escalation for Itauma ahead of a potential clash with the victor of Dubois-Wardley in 2027, although complications may arise due to both Itauma and Wardley being trained by Ben Davison.

In other developments, veteran American fighter Deontay Wilder has yet to disclose his next steps following a victory over Britain's Derek Chisora, who is reportedly reconsidering his retirement, while British champion Richard Riakporhe remains actively involved in the domestic boxing scene.