London, UK - 2024 was a stellar year for boxing, highlighted by Oleksandr Usyk’s dominance over Tyson Fury in back-to-back victories. These wins not only cemented Usyk’s legacy as the greatest heavyweight of his generation but also made him the division's first undisputed champion since Lennox Lewis over two decades ago.

Boxing is currently at the forefront of everyone's mind. Just weeks into the New Year, attention is firmly focused on the upcoming all-British clash between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn. The latest boxing odds market for the April bout lists Eubank Jr. as a 1.69 betting favorite to defeat Benn. However, even this highly anticipated middleweight showdown pales in comparison to the attention these two prospective clashes would garner.

Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua

Once destined to be a historic clash for the undisputed heavyweight championship, a bout between Tyson Fury, who currently claims he's retired and Anthony Joshua has evolved into something different. The titles are no longer at stake, with both men suffering defeats at the hands of Oleksandr Usyk. Yet, the allure of this fight remains as strong as ever.

At their peaks, Fury and Joshua were giants in the sport, and a matchup between them could have filled Wembley Stadium with 100,000 roaring fans. While both are now outside the championship picture—Fury after consecutive losses to Usyk and Joshua following a one-sided beatdown by Daniel Dubois for the IBF strap—their rivalry has simmered for years. This fight represents unfinished business for two of Britain’s most iconic heavyweights.

The two have often flirted with the idea of signing to fight, but thus far a deal couldn't be reached. Fury would likely enter the contest as the expected winner, given his size, reach, and boxing IQ. However, Joshua’s renowned power still makes him a dangerous opponent. If he can recapture the form that once made him a unified champion, he could become the first man to stop Fury inside the distance. With nothing left to lose and everything to gain, this overdue showdown could deliver fireworks if Fury latest retirement proves false once again.

Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois II

Oleksandr Usyk has cleared every hurdle in the heavyweight division, replicating the undisputed success he achieved at cruiserweight. However, his reign as the unified champion was briefly interrupted when he was stripped of the IBF title for prioritizing his rematch with Fury over a mandatory defense.

Daniel Dubois seized the opportunity, knocking out Filip Hrgovic to claim the vacant IBF championship. He followed that up with a crushing knockout of Anthony Joshua, cementing his place among the division's elite. Now, a rematch with Usyk is the logical next step, with all the heavyweight titles on the line.

Their first encounter in August 2023 very nearly ended in disaster for Usyk. Dubois appeared to some fans to have dropped the champion with a body shot in the fifth round, but the referee correctly ruled it a low blow. The fight continued, and Usyk ultimately secured a ninth-round stoppage. Dubois has since matured as a fighter, showcasing his power and poise in his recent bouts.

Daniel Dubois will be defending his IBF title on February 22nd against former WBO title holder Joseph Parker. Assuming Dubois comes out victorious a rematch with Usyk would be a thrilling spectacle. Dubois has already proven he can trouble Usyk, and with the confidence of his recent wins, he could pose an even greater threat to the heavyweight champion. For Usyk, it’s another opportunity to prove why he stands atop the heavyweight mountain.

The Road Ahead

These two potential clashes—Fury vs. Joshua and Usyk vs. Dubois II—highlight the excitement and unpredictability of the heavyweight division. Each bout offers unique narratives, from redemption arcs to legacy-defining moments. As fans eagerly await announcements, one thing is clear: heavyweight boxing is poised for another unforgettable year in 2025.