The Cat, 38, confirmed The Bronze Bomber, 40, is his preferred opponent for 2026 after retaining his WBC, WBA and IBF titles and signalling the final phase of an already historic career.
Speaking to Ring TV, he said: “My team prepare for me fight. I want fight with - I say Bronze Bomber, Deontay Wilder. I want this fight, I think Deontay too. Okay, let’s go.”
Usyk has twice defeated Anthony Joshua, 36, outpointed Tyson Fury, 37, and stopped Daniel Dubois, 28, to establish himself as the dominant heavyweight of his generation.
While younger contenders continue to emerge, the Ukrainian has earned the freedom to be selective as his career winds down.
Addressing criticism that Wilder may be past his prime, Usyk framed the matchup around legacy and profile rather than timing.
He said: “It’s biggest names. This is man, last 10 years top fighter. It’s, I think, for me, it’s great fight.”
Asked about the danger posed by Wilder’s power - who has 42 knockouts in 43 wins - Usyk was characteristically brief.
When questioned on whether Wilder now punches harder than him, Usyk said: “Maybe.”
The Cat also offered a clear indication of how close he is to retirement, despite remaining unbeaten and firmly in control of the division.
He added: “I think two, three fights more.”
Momentum behind a Wilder fight has grown in recent weeks, with The Bronze Bomber confirming talks are “very promising” as negotiations continue for a potential 2026 clash.
Wilder is being lined up as a voluntary WBC challenger after Usyk vacated the WBO belt earlier this year while plotting another unification push.
Speaking to IBA Boxing, Wilder said: “Just the excitement that it has drawn for boxing fans has been amazing, and I don’t doubt that it’s going to happen … at this moment in time of negotiation, it looks very promising.”
Wilder returned to winning ways in June 2025 with a knockout of Tyrrell Anthony Herndon, 38, following a difficult run that included four losses in six bouts.
He has insisted those struggles were mental rather than physical and believes the Usyk opportunity has helped reset his focus.
Usyk, meanwhile, remains clear about his motivation as he chases a third undisputed reign before walking away.
He said: “I want to fight Deontay Wilder. This is a world champion guy, this is a very famous guy, this is a strong guy.”
