WBC, IBF, WBO light heavyweight champion Artur Beterbiev would have no problem with a potential fight against Oleksandr Usyk, who holds the WBO, IBF, IBO, WBA heavyweight titles.
The contest would have to take place in the cruiserweight division – where Usyk became undisputed champion in 2018.
Beterbiev was in action last Saturday night in London, where he stopped Anthony Yarde in eight rounds.
The victory raised his undefeated record to 19-0 – with every opponent stopped inside the distance.
Usyk has raised his standing in the sport after back to back decision wins over Anthony Joshua.
There are ongoing negotiations to finalize an undisputed fight between Usyk and WBC world champion Tyson Fury.
If the opportunity to face Usyk comes up – Beterbiev would entertain the scenario.
“No problem,” Beterbiev said. “If you organize. He’s successful. He did a good job [with his career]. He’s a good fighter and he did a good job. I’m not really interested [in his career]. I’m not following Usyk or someone else,” Beterbiev told Sky Sports.
Beterbiev would like, more than anything, to have an undisputed fight with WBA champion Dmitry Bivol – but it appears unlikely in 2013, with Bivol potentially facing Joshua Buatsi and then going against Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez in a rematch.
Unless a unification deal is struck, Beterbiev will likely make a mandatory defense of the WBC title against top challenger Callum Smith.
The Russian puncher would be willing to explore a world title fight at cruiserweight, but he prefers to capture the last remaining belt at 175 before considering a move up in weight.
“I could move up, it’s interesting but another champion is good too,” Beterbiev said. “I try to be ready for everything. If it comes, we will try to do it.”