Oleksandr Usyk has announced that he will make his heavyweight debut on October 12 against Tyrone Spong. 

The Ukrainian is ranked as the best cruiserweight in the world at the moment, but has been aiming to step up to the higher weight category. 

He was due to make his debut against Cameroonian boxer Carlos Takam earlier in the year, but was forced to pull out of the bout after he injured his bicep. 

Spong is currently unbeaten in his professional career, winning his last fight by knockout against Jeyson Minda on August 31. 

The King of the Ring knocked out his opponent in the second round of the fight, which took place in Mexico.

Spong comfortably won the first round, landing some decent blows and had Minda holding on to him at regular intervals. 

Minda got some decent punches in, but was floored by a body shot just a minute into the second round. 

With 1 minute 21 left of the second round, Spong knocked Minda to the floor with a right hook leading to the referee calling the fight.

The Ecuadorian boxer had been pinned to the corner before he was knocked down for a second time to extend Spong’s unbeaten career to 14. 

Speaking after his next bout was announced, Spong was full of respect for his next opponent.

"I have worked tirelessly during the last three years and now have the opportunity to prove my worth as a boxer against perhaps the best pound-for-pound, and most technically sound boxer in the world.”

Usyk was looking to his future in the division, but was also wary of the threat Spong possess.

"Spong is a fast and powerful heavyweight who has had much success in the ring. I must come through this test to challenge for the world heavyweight title. I look forward to seeing everyone there."

Usyk’s first heavyweight fight will take place at Wintrust Arena in Chicago on October 12.