The division has a lot of up and coming prospects coming through but are in there 20s, where usually HW boxers don’t hit their peaks until they’re in their 30s. Usyk doing this puts major doubts for me. His next mandatory was Kabayel, who is more dangerous than anyone he’s faced of late. Good gas tank, big power, solid chin, young, technical, he’s a problem. Moses too if he disposes Hrgovic. Maybe after his last performance he has doubts on himself idk? Maybe he thinks they’re both legit threats to his undefeated record.
If he wants to take an easier fight to make one last pay cheque and retire with his record intact, then it’s smart. Lennox did the same at 38 when he fought Vitali and won on cuts, he knew that was a hard fight and probably doubted himself a bit so retired on his terms with £50 million. Sure he could’ve carried on a got a few big paydays, but at least he didn’t have to face younger hungry killers like they both once were. Usyk has still built an incredible legacy and gained hundreds of millions. Good luck to him. The HW division is wide open now though.