Usyk predicts Wilder to win the Joshua showdown

The Ukrainian boxer gives his verdict on the highly anticipated heavyweight clash

Oleksandr Usyk, who has twice beaten Anthony Joshua, has shared his prediction on who he thinks will come out on top in the potential showdown between Joshua and Deontay Wilder. The two former heavyweight world champions are still lined up for a blockbuster fight next year.

Usyk believes that Wilder's feared power will be the deciding factor in the bout. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said, "It would've been a phenomenal match. Wilder's unique line's if Wilder clips, one's unable to fight back. I'm going with Wilder on 60 per cent for the contest. He's a puncher, and Joshua could be set upon. Deontay's able to send someone flying when he touches one. They usually fly."

Joshua's plans face a potential setback

Anthony Joshua most recently knocked out Robert Helenius in August and was expected to face Wilder next. However, talks with Saudi Arabian backers broke down, leading to a possible postponement of the dream bout. Promoter Eddie Hearn revealed that Joshua could instead have an interim fight in December before targeting a match with Wilder in March or April.

Alternative options for Joshua

If the fight with Wilder does not materialize, Joshua could turn his attention to IBF mandatory challenger Filip Hrgovic. The 31-year-old Croatian fighter is next in line for the IBF "interim" belt, which guarantees him a shot at the champion. Hrgovic may even inherit the full title if the winner of the unification bout between Fury and Usyk is stripped or vacates the belt.

Joshua's desire to stay active

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his next opponent, Joshua is eager to stay active in the ring. Hearn stated that the plan is for Joshua to have a build-up fight in December or January, and then face either Wilder or compete for the IBF world heavyweight title. Joshua's ultimate goal is to become heavyweight champion and face both Wilder and Tyson Fury.