Dana White, the head of UFC, is actively discussing potential collaboration with Oleksandr Usyk, who is the unified world champion in the heavyweight division. This information has emerged from sources close to the Ukrainian boxer.
The new boxing promotion Zuffa Boxing, founded by White, will officially begin its operations this Friday at the UFC Apex arena located in Las Vegas. Despite moderate interest in the debut show, White is eager to build a strong roster and strategy for the new project. One of the first significant steps has been the signing of Jai Opetai, the world champion in the cruiserweight division. A potential contract with Usyk could become a pivotal event for the promotion of Zuffa Boxing.
Sergiy Lapin, Usyk's sports director, confirmed the existence of negotiations with Dana White in an interview with TalkSport. "We are in touch, having dialogue, and there is interest from both sides. Although the details are not yet disclosed, some opportunities are open. If the financial terms and timelines are suitable, an unexpected turn is possible," noted Lapin.
Oleksandr Usyk terminated his contract with his former promoter Alex Krasyuk before the fight with Daniel Dubois in August 2025 and has not stepped into the ring since then. Despite losing the WBO title outside of boxing, most experts still consider Usyk the de facto undisputed heavyweight champion.
If Usyk accepts the offer from Zuffa Boxing, his potential opponent could be Deontay Wilder. Given Usyk's victories over Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, a fight with Wilder could solidify his status as the leading boxer of his time.
Finalizing the deal would be a significant event, and signing Usyk would be one of the most notable transfers at the start of Zuffa Boxing, which could seriously impact the situation in global boxing.
