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Oleksandr Usyk rules out blockbuster trilogy as star opens door for Moses Itauma dance
Oleksandr Usyk will not seek a trilogy bout with Tyson Fury next year, with the star's advisor Serhii Lapin suggesting that the "chapter is already closed" between the two men.
The Ukrainian handed 'The Gypsy King' the first two losses of his career in back-to-back bouts in 2024, first for the undisputed heavyweight championship and then in a rematch.
Fury subsequently announced his retirement from the sport early this year, but has spent the intervening months teasing a 2026 return specifically for a trilogy closer with the star.
However, Lapin does not believe there is value in a third encounter with the Briton, who has also long been linked to Anthony Joshua, another third-dance option for 'The Cat'.
”Theoretically, it’s an interesting option, but for whom?” he told The Ring . “If boxing fans truly support it, then maybe. However, in my opinion, that chapter is already closed.”
Having previously hinted he would fight once more before hanging up his gloves, Usyk now appears to have suggested he will fight for three more years atop the division.
While the winner of Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley's blockbuster bout this weekend will be the frontrunner to challenge, Moses Itauma has also been long linked with the star.
Usyk previously appeared to rule out facing the rising star, but Lapin believes a bout could happen once the twenty-year-old banks more experience against top-level opponents.
“I wouldn’t say he doesn’t want to fight Itauma,” he added. “He’s a promising fighter, and his team has done a good job bringing him to this level and ranking.
"But if we analyze the heavyweight division, besides Usyk, there are plenty of top fighters. Itauma still needs a serious test before facing a legend.
"Have we seen him go the full 12-round distance? Has he been in dangerous situations in the ring? My answer is no. At this stage, he doesn’t have the tools to beat Usyk."
Watch Parker vs. Wardley live on DAZN
Joseph Parker and Fabio Wardley fight on Saturday, October 25, to become the WBO mandatory challenger to Oleksandr Usyk. Watch the fight and undercard live and exclusive on DAZN PPV.
