In an exciting development for boxing fans around the world, Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning heavyweight champion, has agreed to a third bout with former champion Anthony Joshua. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the boxing community, as the rivalry between Usyk and Joshua has been one of the most compelling in recent years. Usyk, who is currently the WBA, WBO, and IBF heavyweight titleholder, made the statement, “I will give him a final chance,” indicating that Joshua’s last opportunity to reclaim his belts is at hand. This article explores the significance of this third fight, the history between the two fighters, and what it means for the future of heavyweight boxing.
The rivalry between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua began in September 2021 when the two fighters first met in the ring at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. Usyk, a former undisputed cruiserweight champion, moved up to the heavyweight division and shocked the boxing world with a stunning performance. The Ukrainian boxer dominated Joshua throughout the fight, earning a unanimous decision victory and claiming the WBA, WBO, and IBF heavyweight titles.
The loss was a devastating blow for Joshua, who had previously unified the heavyweight division and was considered one of the sport’s top stars. However, Joshua immediately exercised his rematch clause, and the two squared off again in August 2022 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This time, Usyk was just as dominant, winning by split decision and solidifying his place as the top heavyweight in boxing.
Despite the two defeats, Joshua’s stature as a former two-time heavyweight champion has kept him in the spotlight. His first loss to Usyk was widely regarded as a tactical defeat, with Joshua failing to cope with Usyk’s speed and skill. The second loss, although close, made it clear that Usyk had firmly established himself as the better fighter.
Following Joshua’s second loss to Usyk, many believed that Joshua’s time as a top-tier heavyweight contender was over. However, in a recent statement, Usyk shocked fans and the boxing world by offering Joshua a third fight. Usyk said, “I will give him a final chance,” suggesting that despite his dominance over Joshua in their previous encounters, he is willing to give the British fighter one last shot at redemption.
Usyk’s decision to accept a third fight is rooted in respect for Joshua’s career and legacy. While many might have expected Usyk to move on to other challengers, he has made it clear that he wants to settle the score with Joshua once and for all. For Usyk, this fight is about more than just securing another victory. It’s about proving that he is the definitive champion of the heavyweight division, and that his first two wins against Joshua were no flukes.
A third fight between Usyk and Joshua is not only a chance for Joshua to redeem himself but also an opportunity for Usyk to cement his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. The heavyweight division is widely regarded as the most prestigious in boxing, and Usyk’s dominance in this division would elevate him to an elite status alongside the likes of Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, and Lennox Lewis.
For Joshua, this third fight is critical for his future in boxing. After losing twice to Usyk, many have questioned whether Joshua can ever return to the peak of the heavyweight division. A victory in the third bout would not only allow him to reclaim his titles but also restore his confidence and legacy as one of the most formidable fighters in the sport.
Beyond the personal stakes for both fighters, the fight also has major implications for the heavyweight division as a whole. The winner of the Usyk-Joshua trilogy could set up future mega-fights with other top contenders such as Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, or even the next generation of heavyweight stars. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the potential showdown between Usyk and Fury, and a third victory for Usyk over Joshua could pave the way for this highly anticipated fight.
The first two fights between Usyk and Joshua were technical battles, with Usyk’s superior boxing skills proving too much for Joshua to handle. In the first fight, Usyk used his quick footwork, lateral movement, and sharp jab to frustrate Joshua, who struggled to land significant punches. Joshua’s slow pace and inability to adjust to Usyk’s style led to his downfall.
In the second fight, Joshua adopted a more aggressive approach, but this too was ineffective. Usyk’s excellent defense and ring IQ allowed him to counter Joshua’s attacks, while his stamina and composure enabled him to remain in control throughout the bout. In their third fight, Joshua will need to make significant adjustments if he hopes to defeat Usyk. This may involve improving his footwork, conditioning, and ability to cut off the ring.
For Usyk, the challenge will be maintaining his technical approach while avoiding becoming too complacent. Usyk will need to stick to what has worked for him in the past—using his speed, precision, and intelligence to outmaneuver Joshua. However, he must also be prepared for a more desperate and motivated Joshua who will be looking to make adjustments of his own.
With the announcement of the third fight, both Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua now face a critical period of preparation. Fans can expect a highly competitive build-up to the fight, as both camps will be working tirelessly to ensure victory. For Usyk, the focus will be on maintaining his unbeaten record in the heavyweight division and further solidifying his place in boxing history. For Joshua, the third fight represents his last chance to prove that he can regain his former glory and once again reign as the heavyweight champion.
The confirmation of a third fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua has injected new excitement into the heavyweight boxing scene. With Usyk stating, “I will give him a final chance,” it’s clear that this trilogy is about more than just titles—it’s about legacy. For Joshua, it’s an opportunity to redeem himself and prove that he still belongs among the best. For Usyk, a victory would cement his place at the top of the heavyweight division and bring him closer to becoming one of boxing’s all-time greats. As the world eagerly anticipates this monumental fight, one thing is certain: the stakes have never been higher.
