Usyk – Itauma, fight with Parker or show with Jake Paul? Mykola Kovalchuk’s opinion

In a blitz interview for “Champion”, WBC Ukraine President Mykola Kovalchuk shared his vision of the further prospects for the Ukrainian champion. Among the most discussed options are a possible fight with 20-year-old British talent Moses Itauma and even a hypothetical MMA bout with YouTuber Jake Paul.

– Mr. Kovalchuk, should Usyk agree to a fight with Itauma if there is an attractive financial offer from Saudi Arabia? How risky would this fight be for the Ukrainian at this stage, considering the possible outcome?

– I think the question should be framed differently: does Moses – a young, highly talented and gifted boxer, and, I am convinced, a future undisputed heavyweight world champion – really need this fight now, with the huge risk of spoiling his record and disrupting the careful construction of his lightning-fast career?! Anything can happen in boxing. But we know that Usyk has already gone through “fire, water and brass pipes” in his career and possesses an incredible amount of experience. Therefore, a fight between Itauma and Usyk would be emotional but not a particularly rational move from the British camp. As for Usyk…?! If the purse meets his expectations, I am convinced he would agree and only benefit from it.

– Do you see any parallels between this potential fight and Wladimir Klitschko vs Tyson Fury in 2015? Wladimir was 39, considered the favorite, but unexpectedly lost.

– No need to look for parallels. Usyk is in excellent physical condition. We see no signs of decline in his functional indicators. Despite being 38, he is at the peak of his form. It’s important to consider that Oleksandr started boxing quite late — at 15 years old. He has always taken good care of his health, almost always had enough time for proper recovery after tough fights, and used the services of skilled sports nutritionists. That’s why he extended his boxing longevity. Itauma is a dangerous boxer, known for his knockout power. He has already earned the reputation of a “young Mike Tyson,” so he certainly won’t be a clear underdog. Moses will have a chance.

And one more thing about Usyk. Name me a single boxer he has ever underestimated in his career?! There hasn’t been one! Every single preparation is like it’s the most important fight of his life. Surprises, force majeure, injuries, lucky punches, a single clean shot – all this can change the outcome in a moment. But given the circumstances, this would be a good fight for Oleksandr, though with a high level of risk for Itauma.

– Oleksandr Krasyuk, who was Usyk’s promoter for many years, advises the Ukrainian to end his professional boxing career. What would you advise Usyk to do right now?

– I see no reason to retire. Not until he himself feels the time has come — physically or psychologically. Usyk is at the peak of his form. He earns astronomical purses, and as long as he can, and most importantly, wants to do this, his career should continue. He will know himself when it’s time to stop.

– Should Usyk go through with a mandatory defense against Joseph Parker, considering this fight might not be financially attractive to him?

– A fight with Joseph would be very interesting. First, it’s another successful heavyweight from the top division. Second, Parker has improved significantly in his last few fights. Yes, Usyk is the clear favorite in this possible matchup. But Joseph should not be underestimated — he’s an experienced, durable, and fairly technical boxer with a solid reputation and ranking. I think the purse will decide everything, but for Usyk this fight would certainly not be a waste.

– Are you personally interested in seeing Usyk in an MMA fight with YouTuber Jake Paul? After all, it could be another convincing win and bring in more money than both Dubois fights combined.

– All these fights with bloggers are not for the traditional boxing audience. They are aimed more at the younger generation — fans of likes, hype, and social media rather than boxing. And accordingly, they bring generous financial returns. From a boxing standpoint — it’s nonsense and not connected to true professional boxing. But as entertainment and for the sake of earnings — why not? A big purse, extra attention for Ukraine, support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine — all this can be achieved in such events. It can also help popularize boxing among a wider audience — young people and those far from sports.