Former boxing champion Johnny Nelson predicts a contentious outcome in the upcoming undisputed heavyweight title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk. Nelson believes Fury, known for his unorthodox fighting style, will resort to dirty tactics to gain an edge over Usyk. This prediction is based on a dream Nelson had, in which Fury’s victory or defeat was accompanied by controversy.
Jordan Thompson, a Manchester cruiserweight, has shared the ring with both Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk as a sparring partner. He has observed their training and fighting styles firsthand, and provides insights into their abilities and personalities. Thompson praises Usyk’s exceptional boxing skills, composure, and intelligence, while admiring Fury’s adaptability, hand speed, and ring IQ. As Fury and Usyk prepare for their undisputed heavyweight title fight in May, Thompson’s unique perspective offers valuable insights into the strengths and styles of these two boxing giants.
Boxing is experiencing a resurgence in 2024, with a mix of talented fighters, engaging media, and rivalries driving interest. Here’s a look at the confirmed cards between May and August, featuring big names and championship implications:
Ahead of the highly anticipated heavyweight showdown between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, Usyk’s camp has devised a contingency plan to ensure the event proceeds smoothly despite potential unforeseen circumstances. Filip Hrgovic, the mandatory IBF title challenger, has been designated as a replacement opponent in the event of Fury’s withdrawal. Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, emphasized the importance of preparing for all eventualities, given the significance of this undisputed title fight, the first in nearly 25 years.
Oleksandr Usyk’s promoter, Alex Krassyuk, has named Filip Hrgovic as the replacement fighter for Tyson Fury if the Brit withdraws from their undisputed heavyweight clash again. The fight, originally scheduled for February 17th, was postponed to May 18th after Fury suffered a cut in sparring. Krassyuk expressed concerns that Fury could once again postpone the fight and named Hrgovic, the IBF mandatory challenger, as the replacement. The promoter emphasized the importance of undisputed status and criticized Fury’s alleged lack of interest in this aspect. Fury, who hasn’t fought since his victory over Francis Ngannou, has withdrawn from the Usyk fight four times, prompting doubts about the potential for a two-fight deal in the future.
Turki Alalshikh, the influential Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, has set his sights on making some of boxing’s most anticipated matchups happen. During a Reddit Q&A, Alalshikh named Fury vs Joshua, Crawford vs Canelo Alvarez, and Benavidez vs Beterbiev as the top three fights he hopes to bring to fruition.
