While the heavyweight scene has no shortage of contenders, there’s also no clear-cut challenger. BBC Sport takes a deep dive into the state of the division—what fights are confirmed, who’s rising, and who could realistically threaten the reign of boxing’s most technically gifted heavyweight.
Confirmed: Itauma vs Whyte, Hrgovic vs Adeleye in Saudi Arabia
The next marquee heavyweight showdown comes on 16 August in Saudi Arabia, when rising British prospect Moses Itauma faces Dillian Whyte in what is a massive leap in competition for the 20-year-old.
Itauma, touted as Britain’s next big heavyweight star, will face his toughest test yet against the experienced Whyte—a former world title challenger with knockout power and ring-savvy. The outcome could catapult Itauma into global relevance or reassert Whyte as a top contender.
Also on the card, Filip Hrgovic faces David Adeleye. With both men seeking to rebuild momentum after recent losses, this fight could be a stepping stone to another title shot.
Who’s Next for Usyk?
Usyk didn’t hold back after his latest win—publicly naming Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Joseph Parker, and even Derek Chisora as potential opponents. The Ukrainian is known for honouring public demand, so expect fan sentiment to play a key role in who he fights next.
With his second straight win over Dubois in the bag, Usyk remains undefeated and undisputed. But does anyone have the tools to beat him? At this stage, it seems Usyk holds the cards and the calendar.
What’s Next for Dubois?
For Daniel Dubois, it’s now about rebuilding. The 27-year-old has suffered three defeats—two to Usyk—but remains a respected force in the heavyweight division due to his punching power and willingness to face tough opponents.
His promoter Frank Warren says Dubois will “take a break” before returning against a “quality opponent.”
Potential comeback opponents include Anthony Joshua, Fabio Wardley, Derek Chisora, and Moses Itauma. There’s even speculation about a domestic mega-fight with Tyson Fury—should the Gypsy King decide on a lighter return bout.
“It’s all about resilience and desire,” Warren said. “He can punch, he can hurt you, but now he must develop other aspects of his game.”
Don’t expect a change in fighting style—Dubois will remain the aggressive puncher—but with Usyk potentially retiring in the next couple of years, Dubois could still have a shot at ruling the division in the future.
AJ and Fury: Still Circling
Despite speculation, neither Anthony Joshua nor Tyson Fury was spotted ringside during Usyk v Dubois. Joshua recently underwent elbow surgery and is unlikely to fight before November. Fury, meanwhile, remains in semi-retirement but continues to tease a 2026 return.
That said, Fury surprised fans by calling out Usyk—not Joshua—for his potential comeback.
“When everyone wants to see AJ v Fury, he starts calling out Usyk,” said Eddie Hearn, Joshua’s promoter. “In terms of public desire, AJ v Fury remains the biggest fight in boxing.”
With both men having lost to Usyk twice, a third bout against the Ukrainian holds little commercial allure. A showdown between Fury and Joshua, however, remains the dream ticket for fans—and broadcasters.
Wilder: Back, But Not Yet Dangerous
Deontay Wilder made a laboured return to the ring last month, stopping little-known Tyrrell Herndon in what was far from vintage form. Still, Wilder has name recognition, knockout power, and star appeal, which could land him another big-money fight.
He described the bout as a "new beginning," though at 39, time may not be on his side. British fighter Dave Allen has cheekily expressed interest in facing Wilder, though it’s unclear whether Wilder would entertain such a matchup.
Regardless, his return has stirred interest, and he may yet play a role in shaping the division’s next chapter.
British Title Picture: Clarke vs Tshikeva Ordered
The British heavyweight title is set for a fresh contender clash between Frazer Clarke and Jeamie Tshikeva, a fight ordered by domestic boxing authorities. Clarke has steadily built his resume and will be eager to make a definitive domestic statement.
Ones to Watch: Atang & Dacres
Among the rising names to watch, Leo Atang, just 18 years old, continues to attract buzz as a generational talent in the making. Meanwhile, Solomon Dacres picked up his 10th career win on the Usyk-Dubois undercard, showing steady development and eyeing a breakout bout in 2025.
Final Word
Oleksandr Usyk remains the man to beat, but the heavyweight scene is bubbling with storylines—from rising stars like Itauma and Atang, to veterans like Joshua, Fury, and Wilder pondering their next steps. The division may not be unified for long, but it’s undoubtedly alive with potential.