Oleksandr Usyk didn’t hesitate to name Tyson Fury as the tougher opponent when comparing his fights against Fury and Anthony Joshua. The Ukrainian boxer, who’s now considered to have ‘completed boxing’ by many, shared his thoughts after becoming the undisputed heavyweight champion.
Usyk’s journey to the top of the heavyweight division has been impressive. He grabbed the undisputed heavyweight champion title in May 2023 by defeating Tyson Fury. This victory came just six years after he became the undisputed cruiserweight champion, and 12 years after winning an Olympic gold medal.
Between 2021 and 2023, Usyk faced both Fury and Joshua twice each. All four fights went the full 12 rounds, with Usyk winning the majority of rounds. He also squeezed in a fight against Daniel Dubois, a young and hungry contender, between his bouts with Fury and Joshua.
In a recent interview with Boxing King Media, Usyk was asked who gave him the tougher ’24 rounds’. Without hesitation, he answered, "Tyson Fury."
The interviewer then asked Usyk who he thought would be the favorite if Fury and Joshua were to fight. Usyk responded:
"Maybe it’s Anthony Joshua."
When pressed on how Joshua might win, whether by knockout or on points, Usyk seemed uncertain:
"Maybe points, I don’t know."
The British public still shows a lot of interest in a potential Fury-Joshua fight, despite recent losses for both fighters. Joshua’s team will likely push for this match-up, given its potential to be a big draw.
As for Fury, he’s stated he’ll take some time to consider his options after his loss to Usyk. Some in the boxing world think it might be a good time for Fury to hang up his gloves.
Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois, who Usyk defeated between his Fury and Joshua fights, has gone on to win the vacant IBF belt and successfully defended his title with a knockout win over Joshua.
Usyk’s achievements in the ring have cemented his place in boxing history. His ability to dominate at both cruiserweight and heavyweight, along with his Olympic success, makes him one of the most accomplished boxers of his generation.
