Ahead of their upcoming fight on May 18, Tyson Fury maintained his composure and displayed a respectful demeanor by refraining from engaging in any criticism towards Oleksandr Usyk.
Next month, at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the two top heavyweights will risk it all, vying to emerge as the unquestioned heavyweight champion.
Fury, the esteemed lineal champion and holder of the WBC title, graced today’s (April 10) press conference at the Mazuma Stadium. The stadium serves as both the home of Morecambe Football Club and Fury’s training and living grounds.
Accompanied by his promoter Frank Warren, manager Spencer Brown, and trainer Sugar Hill Steward, the 35-year-old was joined in the interview by Dev Sahni from Queensberry Promotions, who posed the questions.
The fight between Fury and Usyk was initially planned for February 17, but unfortunately, the British heavyweight incurred a cut during sparring, leading to the postponement of the match to May 18. Usyk’s team expressed their disappointment in Fury, sparking a brief exchange of verbal jabs between the two camps. However, today, “The Gypsy King” had nothing but admiration for his opponent and his team.
Fury said, “Usyk’s entire team consists of kind and respectable individuals.”
Recently, in Saudi, I had the opportunity to meet Egis Klimas, who is managing him. It was a lighthearted encounter where I shook his hand. Egis is a pleasant individual who is committed to doing everything he can for his fighter. Similarly, Frank, Spencer, and their team are dedicated to ensuring the best for their fighter. It goes without saying that if you fail to give your utmost effort in promoting or managing your fighter, you’re not exactly an exemplary promoter or manager.
I have come across media reports suggesting that the rivalry between Oleksandr and me is deeply personal. However, I want to clarify that our relationship is purely professional and revolves around our careers as fighters. While there is a lot at stake for both of us, there is no animosity or hatred between us. I acknowledge that Oleksandr is not only a skilled fighter but also a devoted husband, and I have great respect for him as a man. His accomplishments as the undisputed cruiserweight champion and unified heavyweight champion demand admiration from anyone.
Fury acknowledges the danger that Usyk poses, but he also reminds everyone of the fate that befell Evander Holyfield, widely regarded as the greatest cruiserweight in history, when he faced heavyweight opponents who were taller and had a bigger frame.
As someone extremely knowledgeable about boxing, having studied the careers of countless heavyweight and cruiserweight fighters, I have noticed a recurring pattern. When cruiserweights make the transition to competing against the heavyweight division, they often struggle to measure up. This applies even to the most exceptional cruiserweights in history, such as Evander Holyfield. When Holyfield faced formidable opponents like Riddick Bowe and Lennox Lewis in the heavyweight category, he fell short of expectations.
“You may surpass the average larger opponents, but the superior ones at the top are unbeatable due to their size advantage. Weight divisions exist for a purpose, and on May 18th, when he faces me, he will discover his inadequacy. This moment belongs to me, it aligns with my destiny, defines my era, and represents my generation. These are undeniable facts.”
