Is Oleksandr Usyk joining Zuffa Boxing? Dana White provides update on talks

Zuffa Boxing's Dana White has responded to rumours that his new boxing venture is looking to sign unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk. 

The first Zuffa Boxing show is set to take place in Las Vegas on Friday, and is headlined by undefeated Irish middleweight Callum Walsh who takes on Carlos Ocampo. 

Since the promotion's inception, White has made no secret that he wants to shake up the sport with Zuffa and the acquisition of IBF cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia last week was a surprising one. 

Over the past few days, rumours are gathering pace regarding Usyk possibly signing for Zuffa, and if these are true, the Ukrainian fighting under White's promotional banner would be a real statement from boxing's newest brand. 

Usyk team director confirms contact with White and Zuffa Boxing

These links between Usyk and Zuffa Boxing were confirmed by the former's team directors, Sergey Lapin, in a recent interview with talkSPORT Bet Slot Site.

After recently fighting in Saudi Arabia and London, Usyk has his sights set on a big fight in America, with former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder being a possible opponent. 

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Currently a promotional free agent, signing with White could allow Usyk to fulfil this dream, and Lapin made no secret that discussions are taking place between the pound-for-pound great and Zuffa. 

"There is contact, there is dialogue, and interest exists [from Dana White and Zuffa Boxing]. Details aren’t for the public right now," Lapin said. 

"Let’s say a few doors are open and if format, numbers, and timing align, the market could see a move nobody expects."

White remains tight-lipped on Usyk talks

At a press conference on Thursday to promote Walsh's clash with Ocampo, White was asked about the rumours of Zuffa signing Usyk. 

White gave nothing away in his response, but he did confirm talks are underway with a number of fighters.

"We’re talking with everybody we think are the most talented people in the world or have the potential to be the most talented people in the world," White said. 

If White does manage to acquire Usyk's signature, one sticking point will be his stance on the sanctioning bodies. 

The Ukrainian is currently the IBF, WBA and WBC heavyweight champion, and with all the history that comes with those belts, it's very difficult to see Usyk relinquishing his titles for Zuffa Boxing's own championship. 

Therefore, don't be surprised if White's stance on those who govern boxing changes if he continues to sign prominent names within the sport.

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