Oleksandr Usyk could be gearing up for a surprising career shift following his anticipated rematch with Tyson Fury. The skilled southpaw became the undisputed heavyweight champion in May after securing a split decision victory over Fury in Saudi Arabia.

The two fighters are set to renew their rivalry on December 21 in another high-stakes showdown in Saudi Arabia. Usyk, who has cleared out the heavyweight division over the past five years, will aim for a second consecutive win against the former long-reigning WBC champion.

Usyk’s coach, Sergey Lapin, has hinted at the possibility of Usyk exploring new avenues in combat sports if he triumphs over Fury once again. Lapin suggested that Usyk could potentially move into MMA or even bare-knuckle boxing.

“He’s proven he’s the best of this generation and, once he’s retired Tyson Fury, he will consider his options,” Lapin told Betway. “Maybe that’s dropping down in weight again, or maybe there’s a wildcard option on the table for him. Be it in the boxing ring, the MMA cage, or even Conor McGregor’s Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship.”

Lapin expressed excitement about potential matchups, including a fight with UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones or a boxing match against Jake Paul. “Can you imagine Usyk and Jon Jones fighting to prove they’re the baddest man on the planet?” Lapin speculated. “Or maybe it’s a third fight with Anthony Joshua in the MMA cage. Maybe it’s Jake Paul at cruiserweight, although Usyk would need to fight him with one hand behind his back to make it fair.”

Before considering any new ventures, Usyk must first focus on his rematch with Fury. The December 21 fight will see Fury, motivated by his previous defeat, looking to reclaim his title. “Listen up! I’ve conquered everything in boxing – titles, records, the lot. But I’ve never had to come back from a loss. On December 21st in Riyadh, in the heart of the kingdom, the king will reclaim his throne and become undisputed,” Fury declared.

As the highly anticipated rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury approaches, the potential for Usyk to explore new combat sports avenues adds an intriguing element to his career. Whether he continues to dominate in boxing or ventures into MMA or bare-knuckle boxing, fans eagerly await to see what the future holds for the undisputed heavyweight champion.