Evander Holyfield knows a great fighter when he sees one.

Giving credit when credit is due is something that the former four-time heavyweight champion doesn't have an issue with but you have to be willing to put in the work.

Throughout the course of his future Hall of Fame career, that’s exactly what Oleksandr Usyk has done.

After aggregating every cruiserweight title just a few short years ago, Usyk ditched those shiny belts and headed to the heavyweight division.

Being competitive was one thing but winning and being dominant? That seemed practically impossible. Yet, no matter how many times he was doubted, Usyk continued to prove his critics wrong. Now, he stands alone atop the division.

Holyfield has watched Usyk’s heavyweight progression from the beginning. With wins over Derek Chisora, Anthony Joshua, Daniel Dubois, and most recently - Tyson Fury, Usyk’s name has entered the all-time debate.

For some, Usyk (23-0, 14 KOs) doesn’t have the longevity to be placed on the shortlist of heavyweight greats but Holyfield doesn't want to hear that. In his view, there aren’t many heavyweights in history who should be placed above him.

“Usyk definitely gotta be one of the top three,” Holyfield told Fight Hub TV.

Usyk turned 38 this weekend and while 40 is around the corner, the Ukrainian fully plans on defending his Ring, WBA, WBC, and WBO titles for an incredibly long time.

Lining up his next opponent becomes a bit tricky. Fury and Joshua have gotten four cracks at Usyk, falling short each time. With that said, there are a few viable options.

Martin Bakole wants a shot at Usyk’s throne.

So does the winner of Zhilei Zhang vs. Agit Kabayel. In all likelihood, however, Usyk will jump into the ring with the winner of Joseph Parker vs. Daniel Dubois. Since Usyk was forced to vacate his IBF title several months ago, a victory over either man would allow him to become a two-time undisputed heavyweight champion.