In an exciting development for boxing fans around the world, Oleksandr Usyk, the current heavyweight champion, has agreed to a third fight 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 enticing in recent years. Usyk, who is currently the WBA, WBO and IBF heavyweight champion, made the statement: “I will give him one last chance”, indicating that Joshua’s final chance to regain his belts is within reach. 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 both fighters met for the first time 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 an impressive performance. The Ukrainian boxer dominated Joshua throughout the fight, taking 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 pair met again in August 2022 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This time, Usyk was just as dominant, winning a split decision and cementing his place as boxing’s best heavyweight.
Despite the two losses, 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, as Joshua was unable 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 one last chance,” suggesting that despite his dominance over Joshua in their previous encounters, he is willing to give the British fighter one last chance at redemption.
Usyk’s decision to accept a third fight is based on 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 win. It’s about proving that he is the ultimate champion of the heavyweight division and that his first two wins against Joshua were no fluke.
A third fight between Usyk and Joshua is not only a chance for Joshua to redeem himself, but also for Usyk to cement his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. The heavyweight division is considered by many to be the most prestigious in boxing, and Usyk’s dominance in this division would elevate him to elite status alongside the likes of Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson and Lennox Lewis.
For Joshua, this third fight is crucial to his future in boxing. After losing twice to Usyk, many have wondered if Joshua will be able to return to the top of the heavyweight division. A win in the third fight would not only allow him to regain his titles, but also restore his confidence and legacy as one of the most formidable fighters in the sport.
Beyond what’s at stake on a personal level 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 megafights with other top-tier contenders such as Tyson Fury, Deontay Wilder, or even the next generation of heavyweight stars. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the potential Usyk-Fury showdown, and a third Usyk win over Joshua could pave the way for this highly-anticipated fight.
The first two fights between Usyk and Joshua were technical battles, in which Usyk’s superior boxing skills proved too much for Joshua. In the first fight, Usyk used his quick footwork, lateral movement, and strong jab to frustrate Joshua, who struggled to land any significant punches. Joshua’s slow pace and inability to adapt to Usyk’s style led to his downfall.
In the second fight, Joshua took a more aggressive approach, but this too was ineffective. Usyk’s excellent defence and ring intelligence allowed him to counter Joshua’s attacks, while his stamina and composure allowed him to remain in control throughout the fight. In their third fight, Joshua will need to make major 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 to maintain his technical approach and avoid becoming complacent. Usyk will have 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 look to make his own adjustments.
With the announcement of the third fight, both Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua now face a critical period of preparation. Fans can expect a very competitive build-up to the fight as both sides will work tirelessly to secure victory. For Usyk, the focus will be on maintaining his undefeated record in the heavyweight division and further cementing his place in boxing history. For Joshua, the third fight represents his final chance to prove that he can recapture his former glory and reign as heavyweight champion once again.
The confirmation of a third fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua has injected new excitement into the heavyweight boxing scene. With Usyk declaring, “I’ll give it one last chance,” it’s clear that this trilogy is about more than just titles – it’s about legacy. For Joshua, it’s a chance to redeem himself and prove that he still belongs with the best. For Usyk, a win 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 awaits this monumental fight, one thing is certain – the stakes have never been higher.
