Usyk camp targets vacant cruiserweight crown before Benavidez showdown

Oleksandr Usyk's team has given fresh substance to the possibility of a cruiserweight return, outlining a route that begins with the vacant IBF championship and could lead to David Benavidez.

What happened

Usyk adviser Serhii Lappin told BoxingScene that the heavyweight champion is considering a return to cruiserweight in 2027. The stated sequence would begin with an attempt to win the vacant IBF title, followed by further unification opportunities and a possible contest with Benavidez.

The IBF has separately confirmed that its cruiserweight championship is vacant following Jai Opetaia's participation in an unsanctioned contest.

Why it matters

Usyk previously became undisputed cruiserweight champion before moving to heavyweight. A successful return would give him an opportunity to pursue another complete championship sweep in a division where his technical style was established.

The comments also add weight to earlier Benavidez-Usyk discussion. This time, the possible fight has been acknowledged from Usyk's side rather than existing only as an ambition expressed by Benavidez.

What remains unconfirmed

No opponent, date, venue, promotional agreement or contract has been announced. The plan should not be treated as a confirmed fight schedule.

Sources and status

Primary report: BoxingScene. Official title-status source: International Boxing Federation. Status: stated plan, verified 1 November 2026.

Cover image: Oleksandr Usyk at TIFF 2025 — photograph by Gabriel Hutchinson / WikiPortraits, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Background removed, cropped and colour-adjusted; facial features unchanged.