Imagine stepping into the ring with the undisputed heavyweight champion of this era and confidently declaring, 'I’ve got your number.' That’s exactly what a legendary former champion is claiming about Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian boxing mastermind who has dominated the heavyweight division like few others. But here’s where it gets controversial: three-time heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis believes he would have ‘figured out’ Usyk if he were competing today instead of in the fiercely competitive 1990s. Could he really have cracked the code to Usyk’s elusive style? Let’s dive in.
Oleksandr Usyk has undeniably cemented his legacy as the premier heavyweight of this generation. By defeating Tyson Fury in May 2024, Usyk became just the second fighter in history—after the iconic Evander Holyfield—to hold undisputed titles in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions. Since then, he’s doubled down on his dominance, securing another victory over Fury and reclaiming the undisputed heavyweight crown by stopping Daniel Dubois for a second time. With plans to fight for another two years, Usyk’s reign shows no signs of slowing down.
And this is the part most people miss: while Usyk’s achievements are unparalleled in today’s boxing landscape, legends from past eras are weighing in on how they might have fared against him. Lennox Lewis, who retired with an unblemished record against every opponent he faced (even avenging his two career losses to Oliver McCall and Hasim Rahman), told iFL TV that he ‘wishes’ he could have boxed in this era. ‘I would have loved to face him,’ Lewis said. ‘I can’t see why nobody can figure him out. I would have been able to.’
Lewis’s confidence isn’t unwarranted. As boxing’s second three-time heavyweight champion—a feat matched only by Muhammad Ali, Vitali Klitschko, and Holyfield—he’s proven his ability to adapt and conquer. But Usyk’s style is unlike anything the sport has seen in decades. Known for his lightning-quick footwork, defensive brilliance, and tactical precision, Usyk has made even the most formidable opponents look ordinary. ‘Usyk is the best of this era,’ Lewis admitted. ‘He moves well, doesn’t get hit, and is hard to beat.’
Here’s the bold question: Would Lennox Lewis’s strategic brilliance and unmatched resilience have been enough to dethrone Usyk, or would the Ukrainian’s modern mastery prove too much for even a legend like Lewis? It’s a debate that sparks passion among boxing fans, blending nostalgia for the past with admiration for the present. What do you think? Could Lewis have ‘figured out’ Usyk, or is the current champ simply untouchable? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
