The moment for verbal exchanges had come to an end, yet the psychological tactics continued as Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk took the spotlight at the concluding press conference in Riyadh tonight.
On Saturday night, boxing will witness the long-awaited matchup between Fury and Usyk, as they battle it out for the undisputed heavyweight champion title. This highly anticipated event will mark the first time in 25 years since Lennox Lewis claimed victory over Evander Holyfield. Both Lewis and Holyfield were present in the front row, relishing the breathtaking visuals and captivating sounds provided by the Saudi Arabian hosts.
The fighters exchanged few words amongst themselves, as the majority of the conversation was carried out by their promoters and managers, who were seated at the top table alongside them.
Frank Warren, Fury’s UK promoter, exclaimed, “This holds an exceptional significance.”
“It possesses all the necessary elements to create not only a remarkable boxing moment but also an extraordinary occurrence in the annals of sports history. I am firmly supporting my man as he has consistently demonstrated his prowess as the top heavyweight. In my opinion, he is among the finest heavyweights I have witnessed in the realm of boxing, and I have full faith that he will substantiate this claim come Saturday night.”
Usyk’s promoter Alex Krassyuk changed tactics to make a point by quoting a poem from 19th century poet Henry Longfellow called ‘The Rainy Day’.
“Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;
“Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;
“Thy fate is the common fate of all;
“Into each life some rain must fall;
“Some days must be dark and dreary.”
Spencer Brown, Fury’s manager, had no comparisons or offerings to make, but he did caution Usyk by stating, “This will be your toughest challenge yet. He’s determined to snatch all your belts away.”
Egis Klimas, the manager of the unified champion, acknowledged that the fight wouldn’t be easy, but he had a particular question for Fury that went unanswered by the other party.
“How did he attain the status of a lineal champion? While many refer to him as lineal, I am curious to understand how he earned that title. He achieved this by defeating [Wladimir] Klitschko, who was not the lineal champion at the time.”
The heavyweight division’s history held little appeal to anyone except for one individual who can confidently assert their extensive knowledge – Fury’s American promoter, Bob Arum. With a remarkable age of 92, Arum has witnessed the rise and fall of legendary fighters and orchestrated some of boxing’s most monumental battles in its illustrious past.
He stated that in boxing, there exists a saying which emphasizes the significance of the heavyweight division.
The upcoming Saturday night presents a momentous occasion, as we anticipate the crowning of an undisputed heavyweight champion. This boxing match holds immense importance, as both participants have yet to experience defeat. Such a rarity makes this event even more remarkable. The entire world, beyond just boxing enthusiasts, will have their attention captivated by this fight, which undoubtedly promises greatness.
On Saturday’s fight, Sugar Hill Steward and Sergey Lapin, the respective cornermen, had contrasting emotions and perspectives. Steward’s journey in boxing commenced at the Kronk Gym alongside his Uncle Emanuel, who mentored heavyweight champions Lennox Lewis and Wladimir Klitschko. It was Uncle Emanuel who foresaw Fury’s rise as the “next superstar, dominant heavyweight” years ago.
“Boxing’s heavyweight division embodies the essence of the sport and holds utmost significance. It simply doesn’t get any superior to this. If Emanuel were alive, this is precisely where he would be,” expressed Sugar Hill with deep emotion.
In 2018, Lapin disclosed that the groundwork for Fury’s upcoming match started. Despite the six-inch advantage the Brit will hold on fight night, Lapin emphasized that size is irrelevant in this particular fight.
Lapin expressed his desire to extend patience to Tyson, acknowledging that it would be the most challenging night he would face.
After expressing their gratitude multiple times, every person seated at the main table concluded their appreciation for the three-part press conference. Ultimately, the attention shifted towards Fury and Usyk. The WBC champion, known for his outspoken nature and insults, surprised everyone by maintaining a more subdued demeanor.
In brief and concise terms, I would like to express my gratitude to Usyk for showing up and offering me a challenge. That’s all I have to say. I am fully prepared and eager for an excellent fight. Whether it proves to be a tough or easy battle, I am prepared and ready to face it head-on.
Keeping his final remarks brief and straightforward, Usyk, who had written a poem while the words journeyed from both directions, initially presented it to host Dev Sahni as “homework.”
“I am delighted to be present, filled with anticipation and immense gratitude for the occurrence of this fight. Together, let us create a remarkable milestone in history. That’s all.”
After the conversation ended, the customary face-off in boxing took an unexpected turn as Fury defiantly refused to meet Usyk’s gaze, keeping his eyes fixed forward. Meanwhile, Usyk carefully observed his opponent and took advantage of the moment to gather additional insights. Subsequently, Usyk gracefully exited the stage, granting Fury the freedom to express his true self, as he flexed and struck poses for the spectators.
