Oleksandr Usyk Fires Back at Floyd Mayweather’s Shocking ‘I Can Beat Usyk!’ Claim!

At 7:18 PM +07 on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, the boxing world was set ablaze as Oleksandr Usyk delivered a fiery response to Floyd Mayweather Jr.’s audacious claim that he could defeat the reigning heavyweight champion. The verbal sparring erupted just hours after Mayweather, the retired undefeated legend, made headlines with his bold assertion during a press conference in Las Vegas promoting his latest exhibition bout. Usyk, fresh off his victory over Tyson Fury in May 2025, wasted no time countering the 48-year-old’s remarks, turning a routine day in boxing into a full-blown showdown of words.

Mayweather’s Provocative Statement

The controversy began earlier today when Mayweather, speaking at a packed press event, declared, “I can still beat Usyk. Put me in the ring with him, and I’ll show the world why I’m the best ever.” The statement, met with gasps and cheers from the audience, came as Mayweather hyped his upcoming exhibition against a yet-to-be-named opponent scheduled for September 2025. Known for his 50-0 professional record and mastery of the sweet science, Mayweather’s confidence seemed unshaken by the 15-year age gap and the significant weight difference—Usyk fights at heavyweight, while Mayweather’s prime was at welterweight and super welterweight.

Mayweather doubled down, adding, “Size don’t matter when you got skill. I’d outbox him in five rounds.” The claim ignited a firestorm on social media, with #MayweatherVsUsyk trending on X within minutes, as fans debated the feasibility of a matchup that pits Mayweather’s defensive genius against Usyk’s technical prowess and physical dominance.

Usyk’s Retort

Not one to shy away from a challenge, Usyk responded via a video posted on his official X account at 6:45 PM +07. Standing in a gym, sweat still on his brow from training, the Ukrainian champion stared directly into the camera. “Floyd, you’re a great champion, but your time is done,” Usyk said in his characteristic calm yet cutting tone. “Come try me. I’ll send you back to retirement faster than you can count your money.” The retort, laced with respect but dripping with defiance, showcased Usyk’s confidence as the unified heavyweight titleholder.

Usyk further teased, “Maybe we do an exhibition—let’s see if your defense can handle my jab. Bring your best, old man!” The remark drew laughter and applause from those around him, amplifying the viral nature of the exchange. Usyk’s promoter, Alexander Krassyuk, later confirmed to ESPN that while no fight is in the works, the door isn’t closed. “Oleksandr loves a challenge. If Floyd’s serious, we’ll talk,” Krassyuk said.

The Context of the Rivalry

The verbal clash builds on a long-standing narrative of generational comparisons. Mayweather, who retired in 2017 after defeating Conor McGregor, has often been vocal about his belief that he could compete across eras. Usyk, 38, has emerged as the face of modern heavyweight boxing, with a 23-0 record and victories over Anthony Joshua (twice) and Fury, earning him widespread acclaim. Their styles—Mayweather’s elusive counterpunching versus Usyk’s relentless pressure—have long intrigued fans, though a real fight remains improbable due to weight classes and Mayweather’s age.

The timing of Mayweather’s claim coincides with Usyk’s preparation for a potential rematch with Fury or a new challenge against Daniel Dubois, scheduled for late 2025. Some speculate Mayweather’s comments are a publicity stunt to boost his exhibition’s profile, a tactic he’s employed successfully in the past.

Reactions Across the Boxing World

The boxing community reacted swiftly. On X, fans split into camps—Mayweather loyalists arguing his skill transcends weight, while Usyk supporters highlighted his recent dominance. Promoter Eddie Hearn tweeted, “This is the kind of spice boxing needs! Make it happen, even as an exhibition.” Meanwhile, Tyson Fury chimed in with a sarcastic, “Good luck, Floyd—hope you’ve got a crane to lift you up after Usyk’s done!”

Analysts remain skeptical of a competitive bout. Boxing historian Bert Sugar Jr. told Sky Sports, “Mayweather’s peak was untouchable, but Usyk’s size and current form make this a mismatch. It’s more theater than threat.” Still, the prospect of a Mayweather-Usyk face-off, even in a controlled setting, has electrified discussions.

What’s Next?

As of 7:18 PM +07, no official plans for a fight or exhibition have been announced. Mayweather’s team has yet to respond to Usyk’s challenge, but his history suggests he might lean into the hype. For Usyk, the focus remains on his heavyweight reign, though his willingness to entertain the idea keeps the boxing world on edge.

This exchange, unfolding on a quiet August evening, has transformed a routine promotional cycle into a headline-grabbing saga. Will it end in a ring or fade as banter? For now, the gloves are off—verbally, at least—as Usyk and Mayweather trade blows from opposite ends of the boxing spectrum.