UFC boss White in talks to sign Usyk as negotiations for Wilder fight continue

OLEKSANDR USYK’S camp revealed they are in contact with UFC boss Dana White as talks to fight Deontay Wilder continue. Usyk – who has admitted he is entering the final two or three fights of his career – repeatedly called out Wilder for a title bout this year. His manager Egis Klimas revealed the fight is targeted for America – with either Los Angeles or Las Vegas touted. It comes just as UFC CEO White debuts Zuffa Boxing on January 23 – with events scheduled for across the year. White also helped promote Terence Crawford’s blockbuster win over Canelo Alvarez in September – with Usyk potentially his next marquee signing. Sergey Lapin, a close member of Usyk’s team, told talkSPORT Bet Slot: “There is contact, there is dialogue, and interest exists. “Details aren’t for the public right now. Let’s say a few doors are open and if format, numbers, and timing align, the market could see a move nobody expects. “Everyone has seen what he [Dana White] did. He turned “old MMA” into the global UFC machine. “His real power is packaging not just a fight, but an event. If he gets involved, the scale and attention immediately become different.” Usyk, 39, knocked out Daniel Dubois, 28, for a second time in their July rematch at Wembley. BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS But he vacated his WBO title soon after – with Britain’s Fabio Wardley elevated to world champion. Usyk is vocal about coming towards the end of his iconic career with Wilder, 40, the last superstar name left to fight. And Lapin added: “There are conversations and negotiations happening, but there are no final decisions and nothing signed at this moment. “We’re moving calmly and professionally, when everything is agreed, it will be announced officially. “We are only considering the biggest and most logical options, fights that truly create an event, not just another name. “There are several top heavyweights in the conversation, but the shortlist changes depending on belts, timing, dates, and broadcast structures. “Our position is simple: if it’s a fight, it has to be a big one.”