Oleksandr Usyk will face former kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven next

What’s Next for Heavyweight Division?

Tyson Fury’s comeback victory has reignited the heavyweight division, raising fresh questions about the next major fights in boxing’s most prestigious weight class.

The 37-year-old returned after a 15-month absence with a dominant win over Arslanbek Makhmudov, immediately turning his attention to a long-awaited showdown with Anthony Joshua.

Fury vs Joshua Back in Focus

Fury wasted no time calling out Joshua after the fight, demanding clarity over a potential clash.

“I challenge you… do you accept?” Fury declared.

Talks are reportedly ongoing for a blockbuster bout in Dublin later this year, but no official agreement has been reached.

A fight between Fury and Joshua would represent one of the biggest events in modern boxing, a clash fans have anticipated for over a decade.

Usyk’s Uncertain Future

Fabio Wardley will face Daniel Dubois in an all-British bout

Meanwhile, undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk is set to defend his WBC title against Rico Verhoeven in May.

Usyk remains unbeaten and continues to dominate the division, but questions remain about his long-term plans.

The Ukrainian has already vacated one belt and could avoid mandatory challengers moving forward, potentially opening opportunities for other contenders.

British Contenders Battle for Position

The next wave of heavyweight contenders will collide when Fabio Wardley faces Daniel Dubois for the WBO title.

Wardley, unbeaten as a professional, has already expressed interest in facing Fury, while also targeting a future undisputed bout with Usyk.

Dubois, on the other hand, is aiming to rebuild momentum following his defeat to Usyk.

Rising Star Itauma Waiting in the Wings

Moses Itauma (left) is considered by many as the future of heavyweight boxing

One of the division’s most exciting prospects, Moses Itauma, is rapidly climbing the rankings.

The 21-year-old remains the WBO’s top contender and could face the winner of Wardley vs Dubois if his team accelerates his development.

However, a stepping-stone fight against an experienced opponent such as Filip Hrgovic may be the more likely short-term path.

Heavyweight Division Wide Open

Beyond the headline names, the heavyweight division continues to evolve:

Agit Kabayel remains unbeaten and highly dangerous
Derek Chisora could extend his career
Domestic competition remains intense across the UK scene

With multiple contenders, champions, and rising talents, the division is entering one of its most competitive phases in recent years.

Key Upcoming Fights

Okolie vs Yoka (Paris)
Wardley vs Dubois (WBO Title)
Allen vs Hrgovic
Usyk vs Verhoeven (WBC Title)

Conclusion

Fury’s return has reshaped the heavyweight landscape, but the division’s future depends on whether the biggest fights can finally be made.

A clash with Joshua could define an era, while Usyk’s next moves and the rise of new contenders ensure that heavyweight boxing remains as unpredictable as ever.