(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Lawrence Okolie Eyes Heavyweight Opportunity as Oleksandr Usyk Nears Career Decision
After Oleksandr Usyk’s recent victory over Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium, the Ukrainian champion once again solidified his position at the top of the heavyweight boxing division. With his status as the undisputed champion reaffirmed, attention is now turning to what comes next—not just for Usyk, but for the future of heavyweight boxing.
Usyk’s Legacy and What Comes Next
Usyk has faced and defeated top contenders including Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Daniel Dubois. With fewer immediate challengers left and speculation about his remaining time in the sport, it’s likely that Usyk may soon vacate his titles, setting the stage for a new era in the division.
As Usyk’s incredible career approaches its final chapter, a new generation of contenders is preparing to rise. Among them is Lawrence Okolie, a former two-weight world champion who recently won a decision against Kevin Lerena despite sustaining an injury during the fight. That performance earned Okolie the WBC No. 1 contender spot.
Okolie Ready to Step Up
Okolie has expressed a clear desire to compete for the belts that may soon become vacant, telling The Ring:
“Everyone is congratulating Usyk—and rightfully so—but now the belts need to move. Let’s give others a chance. Otherwise, title fights will happen only once or twice a year, and that slows everything down.”
He emphasized that the current group of contenders is eager to compete, and the division could benefit from a fresh wave of title bouts, leading to another push toward undisputed status in the future.
Possible Matchups: Kabayel and Wardley
Okolie’s next opponent may be Agit Kabayel, the current WBC interim champion. If Usyk vacates the WBC belt, Okolie and Kabayel are the likely candidates to compete for the title. Okolie sees the matchup as natural and important for the division:
“I don’t usually talk about destiny, but it seems like everything is lining up. If Usyk steps away, it’s logical for me and Kabayel to fight next.”
He also noted that Kabayel hasn’t been openly called out by others, making Okolie one of the few top contenders actively seeking the challenge.
Another name in the conversation is Fabio Wardley, the undefeated WBA interim titleholder. With Wardley managed by Dillian Whyte—a long-time rival of Okolie—this bout carries additional intrigue.
“If I can’t get the fight with Dillian Whyte, then let me face Fabio,” Okolie said. “He’s shown his abilities, and it’s a fight the fans would want to see.”
A New Heavyweight Chapter on the Horizon
With legendary names like Usyk, Fury, Joshua, and Wilder potentially nearing the end of their storied careers, boxing’s heavyweight division is entering a transitional phase. Fighters like Lawrence Okolie, Agit Kabayel, and Fabio Wardley are among those ready to take center stage.
Whether Usyk continues or chooses to vacate his titles, the next generation of heavyweight contenders is preparing to write a new chapter—one that promises excitement, fresh rivalries, and world title opportunities.
