Oleksandr Usyk has revealed that in his opinion, Tyson Fury poses the greatest challenge he has faced in his boxing career. In a recent interview with DAZN, the skilled Ukrainian boxer looked back on his successful journey in the sport and his recent win against Fury.
Usyk has had a remarkable career, first making a name for himself in the cruiserweight division where he achieved the status of undisputed champion. Along the way, he conquered tough opponents like Mairis Briedis, Tony Bellew, Murat Gassiev, Marco Huck, and Michael Hunter.
Upon moving up to the heavyweight division, Usyk continued to impress. He started strong with wins against Chazz Witherspoon and Derek Chisora. He then surprised everyone by defeating Anthony Joshua not once but twice, first claiming the IBF, WBA, and WBO titles, and then successfully defending them in a rematch.
Following a successful title defense against Daniel Dubois, Usyk faced his biggest challenge yet in Tyson Fury. In a high-stakes bout with multiple titles on the line, Usyk emerged victorious in a split decision, even managing to knock down Fury during the fight. This win enabled him to secure the WBC title, solidifying his status as the undisputed heavyweight champion. He became the first boxer since Evander Holyfield to hold undisputed titles in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight categories.
During his recent interview, Usyk singled out Fury as his toughest opponent, saying, “I believe so. I have great respect for all my opponents. Boxing is a demanding and perilous sport. This man [Fury] is globally renowned. He is a big man, and I am a smaller man.”
Usyk also touched on their upcoming rematch and the physical toll that boxing takes on his body, confessing, “We have a second bout. Boxing is not a game; it’s a rugged and challenging sport. When I return home after a fight, my body reminds me: ‘Hey Alex, please don’t put yourself through this again.’ And I say no.”
Fans are eagerly looking forward to Fury vs. Usyk II, set for December 21, a highly anticipated showdown that has garnered considerable excitement and even prompted predictions from boxing legends like Evander Holyfield.
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